Tensions are soaring in Ondo State following a disturbing twist in the abduction case of Nelson Adepoyigi, the Ward 5 Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ose Local Council Area, after two men sent to deliver a ransom were also taken hostage.
The two individuals, Bayode Loco and Isimeri, were reportedly detained by the same kidnappers after delivering N5 million as agreed upon following negotiations to secure Adepoyigi’s release. The abductors have now demanded a new ransom of N30 million for the release of all three men.
Adepoyigi was kidnapped around 10:00 p.m. on Monday just outside his home in Ifon, where he was reportedly assaulted before being forcibly taken by gunmen.
Initially, the kidnappers demanded N100 million for his release. Following negotiations, the amount was drastically reduced to N5 million and food items, giving the family and party members hope for a quick resolution.
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However, those hopes were dashed when the couriers were also taken captive after the ransom handover.
“This has thrown the entire community into fresh confusion,” a local source said. “The situation has gone from bad to worse. The kidnappers have turned around to demand N30 million after capturing those who came with the ransom.”
The development has sparked fear and uncertainty among Adepoyigi’s family, friends, and political allies who were awaiting his safe return.
Confirming the incident, Kolapo Oja, Chairman of Ose Local Council Area, said, “The N100 million ransom was reduced to N5 million and food items after negotiations. But now, with the new demand and the seizure of the ransom bearers, the situation has become more complicated.”
Oja appealed for calm, assuring that security agencies are intensifying operations to secure the release of the victims.
Residents of Ifon and members of the APC have expressed dismay at the deteriorating security situation and the apparent escalation of criminal tactics in the region. Meanwhile, local and state security forces are yet to issue a detailed operational update.
The incident underscores the rising threat of kidnapping-for-ransom in Nigeria, particularly targeting public figures and political office holders.
The Conclave
