Armed men have reportedly abducted a retired officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Prince Emmanuel Owolabi, from his home in Osun State, sparking fear and tension among residents of the affected communities.
According to information gathered, the incident occurred on Monday evening when the assailants stormed Ora Igbomina, a border town located in Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State. The community, which lies close to state boundaries, was thrown into panic as the gunmen allegedly arrived in large numbers and carried out coordinated attacks.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers forcefully gained access to Owolabi’s residence at about 7 p.m., firing shots into the air to intimidate residents and prevent any resistance. After creating fear and chaos within the neighbourhood, they reportedly whisked the retired customs officer away to an undisclosed location.
Sources further disclosed that the gunmen later moved towards the Akisa Road area, outside Osun State’s boundary, where they allegedly killed a community leader who represented non-indigenes in the area. Following this, the attackers were said to have advanced towards the Oteere/Ila axis, where they attempted to abduct travellers moving along the route.
The travellers, however, reportedly sensed danger and fled the scene. This development allegedly infuriated the gunmen, who opened fire, leaving several people injured in the process. The sound of gunshots heightened anxiety in the surrounding communities as residents sought safety.
Local security operatives, including community vigilantes and guards, were said to have mobilised swiftly in an attempt to repel the attackers and protect residents. Despite their efforts, they were reportedly overpowered by the superior weapons wielded by the heavily armed assailants.
Confirming the incident, the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer acknowledged the abduction of the retired customs officer. However, the police spokesperson dismissed claims that anyone was killed during the attack, stating that while the kidnapping did occur, no fatalities were recorded.
Security agencies have assured residents that investigations are ongoing and that efforts are being intensified to rescue the victim and restore calm to the affected areas.
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