In a shocking and tragic incident in Ondo State, armed bandits have kidnapped a commercial driver, Muihili Adebayo, while killing his son and critically injuring his wife during the attack. The horrific event took place on Wednesday night at Adebayo’s residence in the Shagari area of Owo Local Government Area.
Adebayo, who operates the popular Akure-Lagos route, was ambushed at his home by the gunmen, who stormed his residence in the dead of night. According to a neighbor who spoke to local news outlets, the bandits fired gunshots at the family members during the raid, leaving Adebayo’s wife injured and their son dead.
The neighbour recounted the details of the attack, saying, “Adebayo’s wife was shot while trying to resist the kidnappers. One of their children, unfortunately, died on the spot due to the gunshots. The mother was wounded on her hand but managed to escape from the scene. She was later rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo, where she is currently in a coma.”
Reports indicate that the gunmen took Adebayo away with them, leaving behind the lifeless body of the child and the critically injured wife. Adebayo’s wife was immediately taken to a private hospital before being transferred to FMC for further medical attention.
The shocking attack has left the entire family and the community in deep mourning. The boy who was killed during the struggle is said to have been a young child, adding to the heartbreaking nature of the tragedy.
Family sources have confirmed that the kidnappers have made contact with the family and are demanding a ransom of N20 million for the release of the abducted driver. The gunmen, who are believed to be part of a growing wave of banditry across the country, are known for their brutal tactics, often targeting commercial drivers and their families for ransom.
A relative of the family, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the ransom demand. “They are asking for N20 million, and the family is devastated. We are doing everything possible to raise the money, but we also appeal to the government and the public for help in ensuring his safe return,” the family member said.
The case has drawn widespread attention, not only because of the extreme violence involved but also due to the growing problem of kidnapping in Ondo State and other regions in Nigeria. In recent years, kidnapping for ransom has become one of the most alarming crimes affecting Nigerians, with rural and semi-urban communities bearing the brunt of these violent attacks.
Ondo State, traditionally known for its relatively peaceful reputation, has seen an increase in criminal activities, including kidnapping, in recent months. Criminal gangs, sometimes referred to as “bandits,” have been terrorizing communities in various parts of the state, targeting vulnerable individuals, especially those working in transport, business, and agriculture.
The wave of kidnapping incidents in Ondo mirrors a broader security crisis in many parts of Nigeria, where bandits and armed robbers have become increasingly emboldened. Bandits often target commercial drivers, as they are believed to carry significant cash earnings from passengers traveling along busy routes. These criminals, usually heavily armed, stop vehicles in remote areas, abduct the occupants, and demand high ransoms for their release.
Residents of Owo and other neighbouring areas have expressed shock and fear following the attack, as such incidents were once rare in the region. Many have called on the state and federal governments to do more to ensure the safety of citizens. “This is heartbreaking. Owo is a place that used to be peaceful, but now we live in constant fear of bandits,” a local resident said. “We need stronger action from the government to stop these kidnappings.”
The rising number of kidnapping cases in Ondo State has led to growing frustration among the residents, who believe that the government has not done enough to protect them from these criminals. While law enforcement agencies, including the police and military, have been making efforts to combat the activities of bandits, many communities continue to suffer from insecurity, with little support from the authorities.
The family remains under immense pressure, especially with the kidnappers demanding such a large sum of money for Adebayo’s release. The challenge of meeting the ransom demand has placed a heavy burden on the family, and they are appealing for both financial assistance and moral support from the government and the public.
“We are in desperate need of help,” the family member said. “We hope the government and the public will help us bring Muihili Adebayo home safely.”
The incident has also sparked broader concerns about the safety of commercial drivers in Nigeria, many of whom are frequently targeted by criminals. Commercial drivers, particularly those who operate long-distance routes, face constant risks from highway robbers and kidnappers. Despite their vital role in the nation’s economy, these drivers often lack the protection they need to carry out their work safely.
As the investigation into the kidnapping continues, the people of Ondo State are left hoping for the safe return of Adebayo and an end to the wave of insecurity that has shaken their once peaceful community.
For now, the family waits anxiously for any updates, praying for the safe return of their loved one while also grieving the loss of their son and worrying about the fate of Adebayo.
