The Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been thrown into mourning following the brutal killing of its Ose Local Government Chairman, Mr. Nelson Adepoyigi. The late politician was reportedly murdered by his abductors, even after part of the ransom demanded was paid.
Mr. Adepoyigi was kidnapped on Monday last week while returning home in Ifon, a town in the Ose Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses said he was seized by unknown gunmen right outside his home as he tried to park his car. His abduction caused fear and concern among locals, especially due to the growing trend of kidnappings in the area.
After his kidnapping, the abductors initially demanded a ransom of N30 million for his release. In an attempt to secure his freedom, two people close to the victim reportedly delivered N5 million to the kidnappers.
However, instead of releasing him, the criminals increased their demand and shockingly held the ransom bearers as well. Though the two individuals who brought the ransom were later released, Mr. Adepoyigi was tragically killed.
The Chairman of Ose Local Government, Kolapo Ojo, confirmed the killing. Speaking on the security situation in the area, Ojo described the development as disturbing and alarming.
“This pattern of brazen abductions, even at the very gates of people’s homes, confirms that insecurity has taken a dangerous and intolerable dimension,” he noted.
He also urged residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement agencies. “While we are grateful that the two volunteers have now regained their freedom, it is deeply saddening and utterly painful that the life of Mr. Nelson Adepoyigi was brutally cut short by his captors,” he added.
Mr. Ojo expressed his condolences on behalf of the local council. “The entire leadership and people of Ose Local Government mourn this tragic loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and political associates of the deceased,” he said.
He further noted, “His dedication to the progress of our party and the grassroots community will be forever remembered and honored.”
Adding to the growing concern, Ojo revealed that another resident was almost kidnapped in a similar fashion just a few days before the chairman’s abduction, pointing to a rising threat in the area.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Wilfred Afolabi, stated that the police could not yet confirm the chairman’s death. He said investigations had begun, and special officers had been sent to Ifon to look into the reports spreading on social media.
