Tragedy has struck the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State as Nelson Adepoyigi, the party chairman of Ward 5 in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area, has reportedly been killed by his abductors, despite the payment of a ransom for his release.
Adepoyigi, who was kidnapped from his residence in Ifon a few days ago, was believed to be held alongside two other individuals who had taken ₦5 million in cash and food items to negotiate his release.
The kidnappers, initially demanding ₦100 million, reportedly accepted the lower ransom after negotiations.
However, they went on to seize the two ransom bearers and demanded an additional ₦30 million for the release of all three captives.
According to reports, only the two ransom couriers were freed, while Adepoyigi’s life was cut short in captivity.
The confirmation of his death came on Saturday through a statement issued by Oluwaseun Ogunniyi, the media aide to the Chairman of Ose Local Government, Hon. Barr. Clement Kolapo Ojo.
“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 statement read.
“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.”
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Ojo further decried the worsening state of insecurity in the area, warning that criminal activities like abductions are fast becoming commonplace.
“Just days ago, another resident narrowly escaped being kidnapped while parking his motorcycle,” he noted. “This growing trend of abductions, even at people’s doorsteps, highlights the alarming level of insecurity we are facing.”
He urged residents to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity to security agencies.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has yet to officially confirm the killing.
However, Commissioner of Police Wilfred Afolabi disclosed that detectives have been deployed to Ifon to investigate the matter.
The shocking development has sparked outrage and deep concern across political and community lines, as calls mount for stronger security intervention in the region.