By Ayomide Otitoju
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ward 5, Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nelson Adepoyigi, who was abducted from his residence several days ago, has been reportedly killed by his captors.
Sources confirmed that the kidnappers released two individuals who had delivered a ransom of ₦5 million and food items for Adepoyigi’s release. The abductors had initially demanded ₦100 million but agreed to a reduced sum after negotiations.
Tragically, after taking delivery of the ransom, the assailants held the two delivery persons hostage and demanded an additional ₦30 million for the release of all three captives, including Adepoyigi. While the two emissaries were eventually freed, Adepoyigi was reportedly killed.
The Chairman of Ose Local Government, Hon. Barr. Clement Kolapo Ojo, confirmed the development in a statement issued through his media aide, Oluwaseun Ogunniyi, on Saturday.
“While we are grateful that the two volunteers have regained their freedom, it is deeply saddening and utterly painful that the life of Nelson Adepoyigi was brutally cut short by his captors,” the statement read.
“The entire leadership and people of Ose Local Government mourn this tragic loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and political associates.”
Ojo also raised concerns about the escalating state of insecurity in the area, citing a recent attempted abduction of another resident as further evidence that criminal activities are becoming increasingly brazen.
“This pattern of abductions at the very doorsteps of our citizens shows that insecurity has taken a dangerous and intolerable dimension,” he said, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
As of the time of this report, the Ondo State Police Command has yet to confirm the killing. However, Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, disclosed that a team of detectives has been dispatched to Ifon to investigate the incident.
