Tragedy struck in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, as Nelson Adepoyigi, the ward 5 Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who was kidnapped earlier in the week, has been killed by his abductors.
Adepoyigi was seized around 11 p.m. on Monday at the entrance of his residence along the Ifon/Owo road. His kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N100 million, which was later negotiated down to N5 million by his family.
However, the situation worsened on Wednesday when two individuals—Bayode Loco and Isimeri—who volunteered to deliver the ransom, were also captured by the kidnappers. The abductors subsequently demanded an increased ransom of N30 million for the release of all three captives.
Confirming the tragic development on Sunday, the Chairman of Ose Local Government, Clement Kolapo Ojo, revealed that Adepoyigi was killed in captivity, while the two ransom couriers were released and tasked with conveying the news of his death.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Oluwaseun Ogunniyi, Mr Ojo said, “While we are grateful that the two volunteers have now regained their freedom, it is deeply saddening and utterly painful that the life of Mr. Nelson Adepoyigi was brutally cut short by his captors. The entire leadership and people of Ose Local Government mourn this tragic loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and political associates of the deceased.’’
The council boss decried the worsening state of insecurity in the area, noting that another resident had recently escaped a similar abduction attempt while parking his motorcycle.
He called on the federal government to support Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities in Ondo State.
Paying tribute to the slain party chieftain, Mr Ojo said, “Mr Adepoyigi’s dedication to the progress of the APC and his unwavering service to the grassroots community will not be forgotten.”
Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, told Peoples Gazette that the command’s tactical team was combing the forests in Ifon to verify the report and apprehend the criminals.
“That’s the update I can give you for now. Our men are all over there to comb the forest, especially to smoke out the captors,” Afolabi said.
