The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ward 5, Ifon, Ose Local Council of Ondo State, Mr Nelson Adepoyigi, was abducted on Monday evening by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

Sources within the ward revealed that Adepoyigi was kidnapped at the entrance of his house along the Ifon-Owo Road. A few hours after the incident, the kidnappers reportedly contacted the victim’s family, demanding a ransom of N100 million for his release.

The Guardian learnt that the abduction has heightened tension in the agrarian community, with residents expressing concern over what they described as persistent security lapses in the area, particularly in Ose and Owo council regions.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that efforts are underway to rescue Adepoyigi unhurt. Police Public Relations Officer Olayinka Ayanlade assured the public that security operatives are on the trail of the suspects.

“I can confirm to you that the chairman of APC Ward 5 was kidnapped at the entrance of his farm along Ifon-Owo Road,” Ayanlade said.

“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ifon, in collaboration with hunters, local vigilante group members, and Nigeria Army personnel, launched a manhunt for the suspects.”