Tension has enveloped the agrarian community of Isua Akoko, headquarters of Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State, following the abduction and killing of a popular youth by gunmen suspected to be herders.
The victim, Ojo Gbara, popularly known as ‘Obesere’, was reportedly kidnapped a few days ago while returning from Ibilo in Edo State. His decomposing body was later discovered in a forest in Igara, Edo State, by a rescue team made up of security operatives, local hunters and youths from the community.
Confirming the development, the Isua Youth Forum, in a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Abimbola Oluwafemi, said the killing has further highlighted what he described as the growing insecurity in the area. He called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Commissioner of Police in the state to urgently intervene, noting that residents now live in constant fear.
Also confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping and killing. He said the suspect is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
The police spokesperson further stated that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has directed intensified surveillance and strategic deployments across the affected area and along the Ondo–Edo boundary to forestall further incidents and ensure the arrest of other fleeing suspects.
“The incident was reported at Isua Division at about 1945HRS on 22nd February, 2026, by a resident, who stated that one Ojo Abbey, male, was allegedly abducted by armed men suspected to be herdsmen while returning from Ibilọ, Edo State.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer immediately mobilised patrol teams to the scene. The victim’s vehicle, an Almera car with registration number KJA 440 DB, was recovered and secured at the station.”
