Gunmen kidnap Alao-Akala’s farm supervisor in Ogbomoso, demand N100 million ransom

Oyo State’s former governor, the late Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala’s business empire has been thrown into turmoil, following the kidnap of a supervisor on his farm at Jabata in Surulere Local Council.

The victim, identified as Christopher Bakare, is said to be a native of Gbongan in Osun State and was employed on the farm about four years ago.

The kidnappers, suspected to be herdsmen, are said to have demanded a ransom of N100 million.

This is coming amid the joy of the birth of twins by the first son of the late Bobagunwa of Ogbomosoland, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, whose naming ceremony is expected to come up today.

The incident, which happened at about 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, has put the family and business associates of the late former governor of Oyo State, who died on January 12 this year, into suspense.

Confirming the incident, a source said that the gunmen had since opened a line of communication with the family, demanding an N100 million ransom for his release.

The source said: “Yes, he has been kidnapped. Those guys speak a smattering of Yoruba. He was kidnapped from the farm. We have been trying to negotiate with them even though the police have been informed.”

MEANWHILE, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Adewale Osifeso, said: “The incident is under investigation and close monitoring. Updates would be provided accordingly.”