The Ondo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun, has confirmed the abduction of an Anglican priest, Reverend Canon Olowolagba, his wife, and two children along the Ise Akoko-Iboropa road in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident reportedly occurred last Sunday when the victims, travelling in a car, were ambushed by gunmen who forcibly took them into the forest.
According to The PUNCH, a source from the community, the kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N10 million but later raised the amount to N75 million.
Providing further details, the Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Babajide Bada, said, “The abduction happened on Sunday between 4 pm and 5:30 pm. Reverend Olowolagba was travelling with his wife, Mrs. Olowolagba, their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness, a university student, and a nine-year-old girl staying with them, identified as Idowu.”
Bishop Bada continued, “They were travelling from Ipesi to Ikaram and were kidnapped between Isua and Ise Akoko. It wasn’t until the next morning that their absence was noticed when church members realized they hadn’t arrived at their destination.”
He further revealed, “The kidnappers initially asked for N10 million, but after some money was raised to secure their release, they suddenly increased their demand to N75 million. Unfortunately, the priest, his wife, and the children remain in captivity.”
Amotekun Corps Commander in the state, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the incident and assured that efforts were underway to rescue the victims.
“We are collaborating with other security agencies to ensure their safe return,” Adeleye stated.
However, Funmilayo Odunlami, the spokesperson for the state police command, disclosed that no report of the incident had been filed with any police station in the area.
Meanwhile, Sheik Basiru Aminu, a community leader and chairman of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Akoko North-West Local Government, called for prayers for the safe release of the victims.
“We urge the community to intensify prayers and seek divine intervention for the quick release of these sons and daughters of our land,” he said.
