Tension in Osun community as gunmen abduct ex-Customs officer

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

Tension engulfed Ora Igbomina in Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State on Tuesday following a violent night attack by armed men that left residents in fear and uncertainty.

The unrest followed the invasion of the community on Monday night, when gunmen reportedly stormed Akisa Road, firing sporadically and forcing people indoors as panic spread across the town.

A former Customs officer, Prince Emmanuel Owolabi, was reportedly abducted from his residence, and his whereabouts remained unknown at the time of filing this report.

The attack also reportedly claimed the life of the leader of non-indigenes in the town, deepening anxiety and heightening security concerns among residents.

Some gunmen stormed the border community of Ora Igbomina, abducting Prince Owolabi from his house. The attackers also allegedly killed the leader of non-indigenes in a nearby community after invading Akisa Road.

Travellers who noticed the gunmen ran to safety, prompting the assailants to open fire, leaving several people injured.

Local security guards and community vigilantes reportedly tried to repel the attackers and protect residents but were overwhelmed by the heavily armed bandits.

When contacted, Osun Police spokesperson Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed the abduction of the former Customs officer but denied reports that anyone was killed in the community.