In a disturbing rise in abductions across Ondo State, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted a farm estate owner, Olanrewaju Oyeleye, and his manager near the Akure Airport, Oba-Ile/Osi axis, in Akure North Local Government Area.
The victims were seized over the weekend on their farmland, located between Abasakin and Osi communities, just a few kilometers from the airport.
Ondo Kidnapping Surge: Fear Grips Residents and Farmers
The latest abduction comes amid a spike in kidnapping cases in the region. Just weeks earlier, a health worker was killed, and his teenage son kidnapped while returning home.
Oyeleye, 50, relocated from abroad to Akure four years ago to invest in mechanized farming. His abduction has heightened fears among local farmers, many of whom have now abandoned their farmlands for safety.
A local farmer, James Odor, condemned the rising attacks on farmers, citing the lack of proactive intervention by security agencies. According to him, the constant fear of abduction has severely impacted agricultural productivity in the area.
Ransom Demand: Kidnappers Request ₦100 Million for Release
A family source confirmed that the kidnappers have demanded ₦100 million ransom for the victims’ release.
Meanwhile, security operatives have been deployed to track and rescue the victims. The Commander of Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, Adetunji Adeleye, assured the public that security forces are working tirelessly to free the abductees and apprehend the culprits.
Escalating Insecurity in Ondo: What’s Next?
With the Oba-Ile, Osi, and Eleyewo communities on edge, residents are calling for urgent government intervention to curb the rising wave of kidnappings. The increasing targeting of farmers, health workers, and residents raises serious concerns about security in Akure North and beyond.
As law enforcement intensifies efforts to combat the crisis, many are left wondering—how much longer will kidnappers continue to terrorize Ondo State?
