Panic gripped residents of Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State after gunmen suspected to be kidnappers abducted the traditional ruler of the community, Chief Adeniyi Adelana, and shot his wife during the attack.
The incident occurred on Saturday night when the armed men stormed the monarch’s residence and whisked him away into the forest.
Chief Adelana, who is said to be about 60 years old, was reportedly taken from his home at about 8:30 p.m. by the attackers, who were said to have arrived in the community heavily armed.
Sources in the area said the gunmen, numbering about six, invaded the monarch’s residence and carried out the operation without resistance from residents who were caught off guard by the sudden attack.
During the invasion, the assailants allegedly shot the monarch’s wife before abducting him. She was said to have sustained injuries from the gunshot and was rushed to a hospital for urgent medical attention.
The attack threw the quiet community into confusion, with residents expressing fear over the worsening security situation in the area.
Many villagers reportedly fled indoors while others gathered in groups, discussing the latest incident and calling for urgent intervention by security agencies.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Mr Abayomi Jimoh, said the injured woman is receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
He said police operatives responded swiftly after receiving information about the incident.
According to him, tactical teams have been deployed to track down the kidnappers and rescue the traditional ruler unharmed.
“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,” Jimoh said.
He assured residents that the police command remains committed to ensuring the safe return of the monarch.
“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,” he added.
Jimoh also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities without panic.
He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could assist in the ongoing operation.
“The Ondo State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that may aid ongoing operations,” the police spokesman stated.
The abduction of the traditional ruler has once again highlighted growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Ondo State.
In recent years, kidnapping for ransom has become a major security challenge across several states in the South-West, including Ondo. Criminal groups have increasingly targeted travellers, farmers, community leaders and other prominent individuals.
The development has placed enormous pressure on security agencies and state governments to strengthen measures aimed at protecting lives and property.
Owo Local Government Area, where the latest incident occurred, has witnessed a number of security threats in recent years.
The area drew national attention in June 2022 following the deadly attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Owo, where dozens of worshippers lost their lives. Since then, residents have repeatedly called for improved security and greater vigilance to prevent further attacks.
Traditional rulers occupy an important place in many Nigerian communities. Beyond their cultural roles, they often serve as mediators in disputes, custodians of tradition and key figures in community development.
As a result, attacks on monarchs are usually seen as direct assaults on the peace and stability of their communities.
Residents of Ode Oriya have appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of their traditional ruler before harm comes to him.
Many also expressed sympathy for his injured wife, praying for her speedy recovery from the trauma and injuries she suffered during the attack.
As of the time of filing this report, the whereabouts of Chief Adelana remained unknown, while no group had claimed responsibility for the abduction.
There was also no indication that the kidnappers had established contact with the family or demanded ransom.
However, security operatives continued their search across forests and neighbouring communities in the hope of locating the monarch and arresting those behind the attack.
The latest incident adds to the growing list of kidnappings across the country and highlights the urgent need for sustained efforts to tackle insecurity.