Ondo State Government vows to secure safe release of abducted community leader

The Ondo State Government has vowed to ensure the safe release of Chief Adeniyi Adelana, the Baale of Ode Oriya Village in Owo Local Government Area, who was taken by suspected gunmen on Saturday, according to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, on Sunday in Akure.

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The 60-year-old community head was abducted from his residence in Ode Oriya, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), prompting a swift response from security agencies.

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Security agencies, including the Police and Amotekun Corps, have launched a coordinated search and rescue operation to secure the victim's freedom, as announced by Ajanaku, who sought to reassure the family of the victim and the general public.

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The commissioner stated that the Police and other security agencies, in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, are conducting coordinated search and rescue operations across strategic locations within and around the area of the incident.

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Ajanaku noted that the swift response by security operatives reflects the effectiveness of the state's investments in strengthening its security architecture, which has been enhanced through the provision of modern intelligence-gathering equipment.

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The government has continued to provide security agencies with modern intelligence-gathering equipment, including surveillance drones and other technological assets, to enhance their operational capabilities, according to Ajanaku.

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Preliminary intelligence reports indicate that security operatives are making significant progress in tracking the kidnappers, Ajanaku said, expressing confidence that the ongoing operations will yield the desired outcome.

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According to Ajanaku, the government remains confident that the ongoing operations will lead to the safe rescue of the victim and ensure that those responsible for the criminal act are brought to justice.

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The state government has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property in the state, as stated by Ajanaku.