In a brazen daylight attack, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Igbokoda community in Ilaje Local Government Area.
Details of the Abduction
Prince Emorioloye Owoloemi, the Director-General of the Asiwaju Media Team, was forcibly taken from his vicinity on Thursday morning. The abduction occurred around 9 a.m. along the Okonga/Olodo Junction in Igbokoda.
According to sources, armed individuals arrived in two Hilux vehicles and whisked the APC leader away from his office area. Since the incident, his whereabouts have remained unknown, and all attempts to contact him have failed.
Worryingly, the kidnappers have not yet established any communication or negotiation with the victim's family, deepening concerns for his safety.
Local Government Condemns Act, Mobilizes Security
The Chairman of Ilaje Local Government, Hon. Maurice Oripenaye, confirmed the incident on Sunday, describing it as a condemnable act of criminality. He expressed profound shock at the abduction, which happened in a bustling commercial area in broad daylight.
"This represents a flagrant violation of public safety and an assault on the peace-loving people of Ilaje," Oripenaye stated. He strongly denounced the act and extended solidarity to the family and associates of Prince Owoloemi.
The council chairman outlined immediate steps taken, noting that contact has been initiated with all relevant security agencies. These include the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, and local security networks to coordinate a swift response.
Calls for Action and Public Vigilance
Oripenaye made several urgent appeals to security operatives and the public:
- He called on security agencies to mobilize resources for the safe and immediate release of the victim.
- He demanded a full-scale investigation to apprehend the perpetrators and their sponsors.
- He urged intensified patrols, surveillance, and intelligence-gathering across Ilaje to prevent further crimes.
The chairman further appealed to community leaders, youth groups, traditional rulers, and stakeholders to collaborate with security forces by providing useful information. He warned that the local government would not tolerate lawlessness, intimidation, or violence within its territory.
"We appeal for the support and vigilance of the public as we work to ensure Prince Emorioloye’s safe return and to bring the culprits to justice," Oripenaye concluded.
Police Confirm Investigation
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and commenced an investigation. The Police Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Abayomi, stated that while information was still sketchy, full-scale investigations were underway.
He urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that the Command has put measures in place to ensure the security of lives and property in the state.
The abduction of Prince Emorioloye Owoloemi highlights the persistent security challenges in parts of Ondo State and has raised concerns about the safety of political figures and citizens alike.
