In a brazen attack that has sent shockwaves through the community, a former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Moruf Musa, was violently abducted by armed men on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred while the ex-lawmaker was observing prayers at a mosque in Ibiade, Ogun Waterside Local Council.
Attack During Evening Prayers
The abduction took place at approximately 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31, 2025. According to official accounts, the assailants stormed the mosque, firing gunshots sporadically into the air to create panic. They then seized the former legislator, who represented the Ogun Waterside State Constituency in the Sixth Assembly, and whisked him away to an unknown destination.
Mr. Ganiyu Odunoiki, the Chairman of Ogun Waterside Local Council, confirmed the harrowing event in a statement released from Abeokuta. He revealed that the gunmen's violence was not limited to the abduction. "The gunmen also reportedly shot some people on the road," Odunoiki stated, indicating that innocent residents were caught in the crossfire during the chaotic incident.
Immediate Security Response
In the wake of the kidnapping, a combined team of local residents and police officers swiftly mobilized to track the culprits. "We are now combing the surrounding bushes together with some police officers," Chairman Odunoiki explained. He added that they were awaiting the arrival of the specialized police anti-kidnapping unit, which was already en route to join the search operation. The Area Commander for the region is also reportedly on the ground coordinating efforts.
The Ogun State Police Command, through its spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, has officially acknowledged the abduction. Babaseyi assured the public that the command has activated all necessary security protocols to ensure the safe rescue of the former lawmaker. "Security measures have been activated, including the deployment of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, and the public is advised to remain calm pending official updates," the police statement read.
Community on Edge and Ongoing Search
The kidnapping of a prominent political figure in a place of worship has heightened fears in the Ogun Waterside area. The attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing some parts of the state. As the manhunt continues in the surrounding bushes and forests, the community remains anxious for news of Moruf Musa's safe return.
The police have urged anyone with useful information to come forward while reiterating their commitment to rescuing the victim and apprehending the kidnappers. The coming hours will be critical for the joint search operation involving local vigilantes, community members, and multiple police units.
