Gunmen have abducted the Vice Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State, Hon. Debo Farounbi, in a late-night attack on Ora community, a border town between Osun and Kwara States.
The incident reportedly occurred around 10:00 p.m. on Tuesday when armed assailants stormed the town, firing sporadically to create panic among residents. Farounbi was abducted alongside three others during the attack.
However, a swift response from security operatives, including military personnel and local vigilantes, forced the attackers into a gunfight, leading to the rescue of three of the victims. The gunmen eventually fled with Farounbi into a nearby bush.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the attackers initially seized four individuals, including two women, but abandoned three due to intense resistance from security forces.
“We were thrown into fear as they shot into the air before taking their victims. Thanks to the intervention of the military, three were rescued, but they escaped with the vice chairman,” a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said.
Confirming the incident, the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, stated that security agencies have launched a coordinated operation to rescue the abducted official.
“One person was taken, the Vice Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government. Security agencies responded promptly, and efforts are ongoing to ensure his safe return,” he said.
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The abduction marks the third such incident in Ora community within seven months, raising serious concerns over the worsening security situation in the area.
In December 2025, a retired Customs officer was kidnapped and held for weeks before being released after a ransom payment.
A similar incident occurred in February when two residents were abducted and later freed under similar circumstances.
Residents have expressed growing fear, with many reportedly leaving the community over repeated attacks.
Community leaders are calling on the government to strengthen security presence, particularly along the porous boundary with Kwara State, which is believed to be a major entry point for the attackers.
“We are no longer safe. People are relocating, and more will leave if urgent action is not taken,” a market leader lamented.
Authorities have assured residents of intensified efforts to curb the recurring attacks and restore peace to the troubled community.
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