Ondo LCDA Secretary Kidnapped, Gunmen Demand ₦100 Million Ransom

Authorities and family members are on high alert after Joseph Aladesuyi, secretary of Okeluju Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Akoko North West, Ondo State, was abducted by armed gunmen. The kidnappers have reportedly demanded a ₦100 million ransom for his release.

Abduction at Poultry Farm Sparks Family Anxiety

Aladesuyi, who is also the Managing Director of Jotina Farms, was kidnapped on Monday morning at his poultry farm along the Kajola axis of Ilu-Abo community, Akure North Local Government Area, close to the Akure Airport. Two other individuals were also taken during the raid.

Family sources revealed that the kidnappers made direct contact around 7:00 am on Tuesday, leaving no room for negotiation. One family member, speaking under anonymity, said the call brought both hope and anxiety due to the severity of the demand.

“They called this morning and asked us to bring ₦100 million before they would release him. They spoke very briefly and did not allow us to respond,” the source said.

The family expressed particular concern for Aladesuyi’s health, noting that he was shot in the hand while being dragged by the assailants.

“Our concern is more about his health at the moment because we were told he was shot in one of his hands during the abduction,” the source added.

Police Mobilize for Rescue Operation

Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has instructed full deployment of operational and intelligence resources to ensure the safe recovery of the victims and the arrest of the kidnappers.

Authorities are reportedly intensifying efforts in the Kajola and Ilu-Abo areas to track the perpetrators.

“All our operational and intelligence units have been mobilized to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the apprehension of the suspects,” DSP Jimoh stated.

The incident highlights growing security challenges in Ondo State, particularly targeting high-profile individuals and business owners in rural areas.