Fear as Gunmen kidnap couple, neighbour in Akure

News Update

There is a palpable tension among Residents of Eleyewo in the Ilu-Abo area of Akure North LGA, Ondo State, as they are thrown into panic late Friday night as suspected bandits invaded the community, abducting a couple and shooting a neighbour during the attack.

The incident, which occurred around 9:45 p.m. on February 20, 2026, targeted Mr. Jamiu Olawale and his wife, said to be residents of Olaribigba Estate, Ilu-Abo.

According to sources, the couple had just returned home from their shop in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry when unknown gunmen reportedly emerged from a nearby bush and attacked them at the frontage of their residence.

Eyewitnesses said the assailants fired several gunshots into the air, causing widespread panic as residents fled for safety.

The attackers subsequently whisked the couple away to an unknown destination.

During the attack, aneighborr, Mr. Patrick Ilumaro, who was seated in front of his residence, sustained a gunshot wound. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Akure, where he is currently receiving treatment.

The police confirmed the development.

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, said tactical teams and conventional operatives had been deployed to comb the surrounding bushes and adjoining areas with a view to rescuing the victims unhurt and apprehending the perpetrators.

He assured residents that concerted efforts were ongoing to ensure the safe return of the abducted couple and bring those responsible to justice.

The police urged members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activitie while also calling for credible and actionable information that could aid ongoing investigations.

The latest attack comes barely days after suspected bandits killed the Alagamo of Agamo, Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun, in Akure North Local Government Area during a failed abduction attempt.

The back-to-back incidents have heightened anxiety among residents of the Ondo State capital, with many calling on security agencies to intensify patrols and strengthen surveillance across flashpoints in the state to curb rising insecurity.