A 45-year-old timber contractor, Bayo Omoniyi, who was abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ifira-Akoko, Ondo State, has escaped from his captors after spending five days in captivity.
Omoniyi was reportedly kidnapped along the Idoani-Ifira Road and taken into a nearby bush by the hoodlums.
A community leader, Chief Boboye Ojomo, who confirmed the incident, said the contractor escaped from the kidnappers’ den after allegedly enduring severe hardship during his captivity.
Ojomo said Omoniyi had since been taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical attention following his escape.
He said, “He went through a lot while in captivity, but we thank God that he was able to escape and return safely.”
The community leader said the safe return of the victim had brought relief and excitement to residents of Ifira-Akoko, who had been concerned about his whereabouts.
Ojomo called on the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to tackle criminal activities along the Orita-Ipele-Idoani-Ifira axis.
He particularly appealed for urgent action on the deplorable portions of the road, which he said had allegedly become vulnerable to criminal activities.
The community leader urged the authorities to strengthen security operations in the area to prevent further abductions and restore residents’ confidence.
Efforts to obtain confirmation from the Ondo State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls placed to the command’s spokesperson could not be connected.