Fresh concerns over insecurity in Ogun State emerged on Monday evening after suspected bandits stormed the Oke-Eri area of Ijebu Ode and abducted three persons during a violent attack on a residential community.
The assailants, said to be more than 15 in number and armed with sophisticated weapons, reportedly invaded the area around 7 p.m., catching residents off guard. A woman was also shot by the fleeing gunmen as they escaped into a nearby forest with their victims.
Eyewitnesses and family members disclosed that the attackers forcefully entered a residence within the Ipojo Golden Estate axis, ransacked the house, and abducted two women and a man.
Residents described the gunmen as men with striking resemblance to Fulani herders. Most of them reportedly operated without masks, except one member of the gang.
The attackers were also said to have attempted to break into another house within the community but failed to gain access.
Sources revealed that the head of the affected family, a government employee, was away at his duty post outside the area when the incident occurred.
A community leader in Ipojo Golden Estate, who spoke anonymously, described the attack as disturbing and unprecedented in the area, noting that residents never imagined such an incident could happen in what he described as a peaceful and developed community.
He called on the Ogun State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing the area and ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted victims.
“We were completely taken by surprise. Nobody anticipated this kind of incident in our community,” he said.
Also speaking, the Head of the Badewa Family of Ijebu Ode, Mr. Yesiru Badewa, lamented that the abduction had thrown the family into deep distress.
In an emotional appeal, he disclosed that one of the kidnapped women was ill and expressed fears that the harsh conditions in captivity could worsen her health condition.
Badewa appealed to the government, security agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to assist in securing the release of the victims unharmed.
The incident has reportedly created widespread fear within the community, with many residents expressing anxiety over their safety and limiting movement within the area.
Residents urged the government to strengthen security presence in the axis to prevent further attacks.
Sources confirmed that police officers visited the scene shortly after the incident, although residents claimed no official update had been provided as of the time of filing this report.
Family members also disclosed that the kidnappers had yet to establish contact or make any ransom demand.
