Residents of Eleyewo Community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Saturday protested the abduction of a couple by suspected armed bandits, blocking the Akure-Owo Expressway and chanting solidarity songs.
The victims, identified as Jamiu Olawale and his wife, were reportedly kidnapped late Friday after returning home from their shop. Witnesses said the gunmen opened fire during the attack, injuring a neighbor who attempted to escape.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident. Police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh said in a statement that the attack occurred around 9:45 p.m.
“On Feb. 20, 2026, at about 9:45 p.m., information was received regarding an incident involving Mr. Jamiu Olawale and his wife,” Jimoh said. “The couple had just returned home in an ash-colored Toyota Camry when they were attacked in front of their residence by unknown gunmen who emerged from the surrounding bush.”
Jimoh said the attackers abducted the couple and took them to an unknown location. He added that a neighbor, identified as Patrick Ilumaro, sustained a gunshot wound and was taken to a hospital, where he is receiving treatment.
The incident occurred two days after the killing of the monarch of Agamo Community in the same local government area. Authorities said Oba Kehinde Falodun was killed while struggling with armed men who attempted to abduct him.
