The kidnappers are now demanding an additional N30 million for their release.
The abductors of Mr. Nelson Adepoyigi, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ward 5 of Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, have seized two individuals who attempted to deliver a ransom for the release of Adepoyigi.
The kidnappers are now demanding an additional N30 million for their release.
Adepoyigi was kidnapped on Monday at the entrance of his farm along the Ifon-Owo Road.
The incident sent shockwaves through the local political community and the larger Ondo public.
According to family sources, the kidnappers had initially demanded a N100 million ransom but later reduced the demand to N5 million and food items after negotiations.
The reduced ransom was reportedly delivered by two volunteers identified as Bayode Loco and Isimeri.
However, in a disturbing twist, both men were also kidnapped by the same abductors during the delivery.
“Mr Bayode Loco and Isimeri took the ransom to them as agreed during negotiations but are now being held by the same kidnappers,” a family source disclosed on condition of anonymity, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
“They (kidnappers) have now turned around to demand a fresh N30 million ransom before they can release them.”
While the family and local officials attempt to manage the situation, the police have distanced themselves from any knowledge of the ransom negotiation or the new abductions.
The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, told reporters on Thursday that the police were not informed of any ransom dealings.
“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. So, I did not know anything about ransom negotiations,” Ayanlade said.
Confirming the initial ransom agreement, Chairman of Ose Local Government, Mr. Kolapo Ojo, expressed concern over the unfolding events.
“It’s true that the ransom was reduced to N5 million and food items during the negotiations. But this new development is worrying. We are appealing for calm while security efforts are being intensified,” he stated.
The incident underscores the growing insecurity in rural areas of Ondo State, where kidnappings for ransom have become a persistent threat.
Residents are calling for increased government action and more proactive security operations to stem the tide of abductions.
As of the time of this report, all three individuals, Mr. Adepoyigi, Mr. Loco, and Mr. Isimeri, remain in captivity.
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