Gunmen Abduct Ondo Traditional Ruler, Shoot Wife During Night Attack

Suspected kidnappers have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area, Adeniyi Adelana, during a late-night attack that also left his wife with gunshot injuries.

The monarch, said to be about 60 years old, was reportedly seized from his residence on Saturday night when armed men stormed the community.

According to sources, the attackers, numbering about six, invaded the area at approximately 8:30 p.m. and headed straight to the traditional ruler’s residence.

Residents said the gunmen, who were heavily armed, opened fire during the operation and shot the monarch’s wife before abducting the ruler and taking him into a nearby forest.

The attack threw the community into panic as residents fled for safety while the assailants escaped with their victim.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the injured woman is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

Jimoh stated that security operatives were immediately mobilised to the area following reports of the attack.

According to him, tactical units and other security personnel have been deployed to search the forests and surrounding communities in a bid to rescue the traditional ruler and apprehend the kidnappers.

“A comprehensive search-and-rescue operation was immediately activated, with security operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a determined effort to track the movement of the kidnappers, secure the victim’s safe release and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.

The police spokesperson assured residents that the command remains committed to ensuring the monarch’s safe return and prosecuting those responsible for the crime.

He urged members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities while cooperating with security agencies.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the victim is reunited safely with his family while all those involved face the full weight of the law,” Jimoh added.

Police also appealed for credible information from residents that could assist ongoing rescue efforts.