Kidnappers who abducted Nelson Adepoyigi, the Ward 5 Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, have killed him despite collecting a ₦5 million ransom.
The assailants abducted Adepoyigi from his home in Ifon a few days prior and initially demanded ₦100 million for his release.
After negotiations, the kidnappers lowered the demand to ₦5 million and requested food items alongside the payment.
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Two individuals who delivered the ransom became hostages themselves.
The kidnappers then demanded a fresh ₦30 million to secure the release of all three captives.
While the two ransom bearers eventually regained their freedom, the abductors allegedly killed Adepoyigi.
Clement Ojo, Chairman of Ose Local Government Area, confirmed the development in a statement released by his media aide, Oluwaseun Ogunniyi yesterday.
“While we are grateful that the two volunteers have now regained their freedom, it is deeply saddening and utterly painful that the life of Nelson Adepoyigi was brutally cut short by his captors.
“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.
“We are now at a critical juncture where security challenges have become a serious threat to the safety and freedom of our people. Only a few days before this incident, another resident narrowly escaped being kidnapped while parking his motorcycle.
“This pattern of brazen abductions, even at the very gates of people’s homes, confirms that insecurity has taken a dangerous and intolerable dimension.
“We urge our people to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest security post, and stand united as we work together to overcome this threat,” the statement read.
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As of the time of this report, the Ondo State Police Command hasn’t confirmed the killing.
However, Commissioner of Police Wilfred Afolabi stated that a team of detectives had been deployed to the area to investigate the matter.
