Prince Bankole Adepegba, widely known as “Ade Bendel” has regained his freedom after a harrowing abduction in Ilara, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The prominent businessman was kidnapped by gunmen on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, in an attack that claimed two lives and sparked fears about rising insecurity along Nigeria’s border with the Benin Republic.
Sources close to the family, the abductors demanded 100 million CFA francs—approximately N300 million—as ransom. Adepegba was released late Saturday night, May 3, following full payment. He was immediately taken to BOHCON Hospital in Benin for urgent medical attention.
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The kidnappers had reportedly transported him across the Nigerian border into the Benin Republic shortly after the abduction, making the rescue effort more complex.
In addition to securing his release, local authorities in Benin recovered Adepegba’s stolen Toyota Corolla, which is now in custody at Sabe Police Station.
The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing to apprehend the criminals behind the kidnapping.
The high-profile nature of the attack has triggered widespread concern over worsening security and the threat of transnational crimes in Nigeria’s southwestern corridor.
Crediblenewsng.com
