Ondo Govt Intensifies Search for Abducted Community Leader, Assures Residents of Rescue Efforts
AKURE, June 14, 2026
The Ondo State Government has intensified efforts to secure the release of Mr. Adeniyi Adelana, the 60-year-old Baale of Ode Oriya Village in Owo Local Government Area, following his abduction by suspected gunmen on Saturday.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, said security agencies, working in collaboration with the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), have launched coordinated search and rescue operations across strategic locations within and around the area where the incident occurred.
The government reassured the victim’s family and residents of the state that all necessary security and intelligence resources have been mobilized to ensure the safe return of the traditional leader.
According to the statement, the swift response by security operatives reflects the gains recorded from the state government’s continued investment in strengthening security infrastructure. The administration noted that the deployment of modern intelligence-gathering tools, including surveillance drones and other technological assets, has enhanced the capacity of security agencies to tackle criminal activities across the state.
The government further disclosed that preliminary intelligence reports indicate significant progress is being made in tracking the kidnappers, expressing confidence that ongoing operations will lead to the victim’s safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the crime.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa said security agencies have been directed to deploy every available resource toward resolving the incident. It added that efforts to strengthen intelligence-led policing and community-based security initiatives remain a priority.
The state government also urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while encouraging members of the public to provide credible information that could assist security agencies in their operations.
It assured citizens that decisive measures would continue to be taken to maintain peace, security, and public safety across Ondo State.
