The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has confirmed the abduction of six real estate marketers in Oyebola village, Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area. The victims, who work with a Lagos-based property firm, were reportedly seized on Friday while on an inspection tour of land owned by the company.
Ogunlowo disclosed the incident on Sunday during a telephone interview with our correspondent, shortly after an anonymous resident from a neighbouring community raised an alarm about the attack. According to the Commissioner, the marketers were invited from Lagos to assess the property and gather information to promote and sell the land to prospective buyers.
“So, they brought some marketers from Lagos to come and see the land so that they can have the requisite information to market the land for the members of the public who are interested. It was during their visit to this land that the six people were abducted,” he explained.
The Commissioner added that the police command immediately launched an operation after receiving the report and is working around the clock to secure the safe release of the victims. “It happened on Friday, and the command has been on it since, and we shall definitely ensure that these people regain their freedom,” he assured.
The incident adds to the worrying rise in kidnappings across Nigeria in recent weeks. Only days earlier, 38 worshippers abducted in Kwara State and 24 students taken in Kebbi State were released following separate rescue efforts. However, many victims remain in captivity.
Among the most devastating recent attacks was the abduction of more than 250 persons from St. Mary’s Secondary and Primary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. During the assault, gunmen reportedly killed a security guard and whisked away around 300 pupils, students, and staff. Although about 50 students later escaped, the majority remain unaccounted for.
The surge in kidnappings has heightened concerns over insecurity nationwide, with community leaders and security analysts calling for stronger intelligence gathering, improved response times, and better protection for vulnerable communities.
As the search continues in Ogun State, residents of Obafemi-Owode and surrounding areas are urging authorities to prioritise safety measures to prevent further attacks.
