Tension has escalated in Ondo State following revelations that two individuals delivering ransom for the release of a kidnapped All Progressives Congress (APC) ward chairman were also abducted, with the kidnappers now demanding an additional N30 million.
The abducted politician, Nelson Adepoyigi, who serves as the Chairman of Ward 5 in Ose Local Government Area, was kidnapped on Monday at the entrance to his farm along the Ifon-Owo road.
Sources within the family, speaking anonymously, disclosed that after initial negotiations, the abductors had agreed to release Mr Adepoyigi in exchange for N5 million and food items.
However, after two volunteers — identified as Bayode Loco and Isimeri — delivered the agreed sum and supplies, they too were held captive.
“The kidnappers have now turned around and are demanding an additional N30 million to release both the original victim and the two men who brought the ransom,” the source told newsmen.
While confirming earlier reports of ransom negotiations, the Chairman of Ose Local Government, Mr Kolapo Ojo, said the situation had taken a disturbing turn.
He urged residents to remain calm, assuring that security operatives were intensifying efforts to secure the victims’ release.
However, the state police command has distanced itself from the ongoing negotiations. Speaking on Thursday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, said the police were not aware of any ransom payment or subsequent abduction of the emissaries.
“I don’t have any update about who was kidnapped again when they wanted to pay ransom. And I don’t know if there’s any attempt at ransom negotiation.
“All I know is that our men have been combing bushes and doing all they can to rescue the victim,” Ayanlade stated.
As the security situation deteriorates in the region, the families of the victims and residents of Ose LGA are calling for swift intervention by authorities to bring an end to the crisis.
The development adds to the growing concerns over the spate of kidnappings in the state and the increasing brazenness of criminal elements.
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