Tension has gripped Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State following the abduction of its traditional ruler, Oba Adeniyi Adelana, by suspected gunmen.
The monarch was reportedly kidnapped at about 8 p.m. on Friday when armed assailants stormed his palace and whisked him away.
According to sources in the community, the attackers, said to be about six in number, invaded the village and forced the traditional ruler into a nearby bush path before fleeing to an unknown destination.
The gunmen also reportedly shot the monarch’s wife in the right hand during the attack.
Confirming the incident on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the injured woman was rescued and taken to a medical facility for treatment.
“In the course of the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was promptly rescued and taken to a nearby medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively to medical care,” Jimoh said.
He added that police operatives, led by the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, were immediately deployed to the area following a distress call.
According to him, a full-scale search-and-rescue operation is underway to secure the monarch’s release.
“A full-scale search-and-rescue operation has since been launched, with police operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes to locate and rescue the abducted community leader,” he said.
“Tactical deployments have also been strengthened across the area and adjoining communities to enhance operational effectiveness.”
The incident has heightened anxiety among residents, as security agencies intensify efforts to track down the abductors and secure the safe return of the traditional ruler.
