The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nelson Adepoyigi, who was abducted earlier in the week, has been confirmed dead.
His death was announced on Sunday morning by the Chairman of Ose Local Government, Clement Kolapo Ojo, in a statement issued through his spokesperson, Oluwaseun Ogunniyi.
According to the statement, Adepoyigi was killed by his captors despite ongoing efforts to secure his release. The two individuals who had volunteered to deliver the ransom and were subsequently held hostage by the kidnappers have, however, regained their freedom.
“While we are grateful that the two volunteers have now regained their freedom, it is deeply saddening and utterly painful that the life of Mr. 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.”
Efforts by journalists to reach Ondo State Police Commissioner, Wilfred Afolabi, for comment were unsuccessful. However, a senior police officer, who requested anonymity, confirmed the incident, revealing that a team of security operatives has been deployed to comb the forest in search of Adepoyigi’s remains.
Adepoyigi, who served as APC Chairman in Ward 5, Ifon, was abducted last Monday evening at the entrance of his residence along the Ifon/Owo Road. His kidnappers had initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million, which was later negotiated down to ₦5 million.
In a surprising turn of events, the two ransom bearers — identified as Bayode Loco and Isimeri — were also taken hostage on Wednesday night. The kidnappers subsequently issued a fresh demand of ₦30 million for the release of all three captives.
This incident adds to a growing list of violent abductions in Ose LGA. In 2023, Bola Adelegbe, younger brother of Hon. Timileyin Adelegbe, a member of the House of Representatives representing Owo/Ose Federal Constituency, was also abducted and killed after ransom was paid.
As of the time of filing this report, security operations remain ongoing in the area.
