Armed men suspected to be kidnappers have abducted the traditional ruler of Odo-Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Adeniyi Adelana, in a violent night attack that also left his wife injured.
The incident has added to growing concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the state, following a series of recent abductions and armed attacks.
According to reports, the 60-year-old traditional ruler was seized on Saturday night after armed men stormed his palace and forced him into a nearby bush.
The attackers, said to number about six, invaded the residence under the cover of darkness at about 8:05 p.m., leaving residents in shock.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh.
“The assailants reportedly invaded the premises under the cover of darkness and forcefully whisked the victim away through a nearby bush path to an unknown destination,” the statement said.
Monarch’s Wife Shot During Attack
During the invasion, the monarch’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand after being hit by the attackers.
She was quickly rescued and taken to a medical facility where she is currently receiving treatment and responding to care, according to the police.
“In the course of the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand and was promptly taken to a nearby medical facility,” the police statement added.
Following the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, mobilised a joint team of police operatives and other security personnel to the scene.
A full-scale search-and-rescue operation was immediately launched, with security operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths, and possible escape routes in an effort to track the kidnappers and rescue the monarch.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State has also ordered the deployment of tactical units and intelligence teams to intensify efforts to secure the traditional ruler’s release and arrest the perpetrators.
Rising Wave Of Kidnappings In Ondo
The latest abduction adds to a disturbing pattern of violent attacks across Ondo State in recent months.
In recent weeks, communities in Ose, Akure North, and Akure South have experienced repeated kidnappings, including attacks on health facilities, council officials, and residents.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to strengthen security operations across affected areas, while urging residents to remain calm and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The police have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safe return of the abducted monarch and to bring those responsible to justice.
