Gunmen Abduct Local Government Secretary and Woman in Ondo State Poultry Farm Raid
Akure, Ondo State - Tension has gripped communities in Ondo State following the brazen abduction of two individuals by armed gunmen on Monday morning, March 9, 2026. The victims have been identified as Joseph Kayode, who serves as the Secretary of the Okeluju Local Council Development Area within Akoko North-West Local Government, and Esther Akinlolu, a female associate.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
The kidnapping occurred at approximately 7:33 AM at a poultry farm situated along Kajola Road in the Ilu-Abo area, which falls under Akure North Local Government. According to official police statements, three masked assailants emerged suddenly from a nearby bush, firing shots indiscriminately into the air to create panic before seizing both victims.
The Ondo State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a detailed statement released on Monday. "Preliminary investigations indicate that the armed men invaded the poultry farm, where they abducted Mr. Joseph Kayode and Mrs. Esther Akinlolu," Jimoh stated. "The perpetrators whisked them away to an unknown location, leaving the community in a state of fear and uncertainty."
Police Response and Security Measures
In response to the abduction, the police have mobilized substantial resources to locate and rescue the victims. "Upon receiving the distress call, the command immediately deployed tactical teams and detectives to the affected area," DSP Jimoh explained. "Our primary objectives are to conduct thorough search and rescue operations while intensifying security patrols to prevent any further criminal activities in the region."
The Commissioner of Police for Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, has taken personal charge of the situation, ordering the deployment of advanced intelligence-gathering assets to track the kidnappers. Commissioner Lawal has also mandated the arrest of all suspects involved in this heinous crime.
Security operations are currently underway, with conventional police forces collaborating with non-conventional security outfits to comb nearby forests and surrounding communities. "We are leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to apprehend these criminals and ensure the safe return of the victims," Jimoh emphasized.
Community Impact and School Closures
The kidnapping has generated significant concern among local residents, particularly parents and educational authorities. As a precautionary measure, several schools in the vicinity have been temporarily closed. "The command understands the anxiety this incident has caused," DSP Jimoh noted. "We are working diligently to restore normalcy and reassure the public of their safety."
Context of Rising Kidnapping Incidents in Nigeria
This abduction in Ondo State occurs against a backdrop of increasing kidnapping cases across various regions of Nigeria. Recent reports highlight similar incidents:
- In Kwara State, armed bandits kidnapped ten individuals from Ahun and Oro-Ago communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area. The families of the victims are currently negotiating with the kidnappers, who have demanded a ransom of ₦10 million for their release.
- In Kaduna State, six Muslim worshippers were abducted during Taraweeh prayers at a local mosque. Community leaders have identified the victims as Harisu, Yunusa, Minkailu, Sadiku, Abdullahi, and Yakubu. The kidnappers have established contact and are demanding a ransom of ₦30 million.
These incidents underscore the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, with kidnapping for ransom becoming an increasingly prevalent crime. The Ondo State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to combating this menace and protecting citizens from such threats.
The search for Joseph Kayode and Esther Akinlolu continues as security forces expand their operations across Ondo State. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the rescue efforts.
