Abductors of Ondo APC Chairman Detain Ransom Bearers, Demand Fresh N30 Million

Tension has escalated in Ifon, Ondo State, following a shocking twist in the abduction of Nelson Adepoyigi, the Ward 5 Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ose Local Government Area. The gunmen who kidnapped Adepoyigi have now detained two individuals sent to deliver a negotiated ransom and are demanding a fresh N30 million for the release of all three captives.

Adepoyigi was abducted at about 10 p.m. on Monday outside his residence in Ifon. Witnesses say he was assaulted before being whisked away by the kidnappers. Initially, the abductors demanded a ransom of N100 million but later reduced it to N5 million and food items after negotiations with community members.

However, hopes for the APC chieftain’s release were dashed when the kidnappers failed to release him upon receiving the N5 million. Instead, they detained the two ransom bearers—Bayode Loco and Isimeri—and are now insisting on an additional N30 million for the release of all three men.

Community sources say the situation has thrown Adepoyigi’s family and local political circles into renewed turmoil and fear, with many now uncertain about the fate of the captives. A source familiar with the negotiation process, who requested anonymity, confirmed the new development and expressed frustration over the abductors’ deceitful tactics.

Kolapo Oja, Chairman of Ose Local Government Area, confirmed the incident and expressed concern over the unfolding events. He explained that during earlier negotiations, the ransom had been successfully brought down from N100 million to N5 million plus food items. Oja appealed for calm and assured that security agencies are actively working to ensure the safe release of the victims.