Suspected bandits have abducted a traditional ruler in Ondo State after launching a deadly attack on his residence and shooting his wife.
Titansloaded reports that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday when armed men stormed the palace of the monarch, identified as Oba James Adelana, and whisked him away to an unknown destination.
The attack has sparked fresh concerns over the growing insecurity in parts of Ondo State, where cases of kidnapping and violent attacks have continued to pose serious challenges to residents and local authorities.
According to sources within the community, the assailants invaded the palace under the cover of darkness and began shooting sporadically to create fear and prevent resistance from residents.
The gunmen reportedly overpowered security around the palace before seizing the monarch and forcing him into the nearby forest.
During the attack, the monarch’s wife sustained gunshot injuries after she was caught in the violence that accompanied the abduction.
She was immediately rushed to a medical facility for treatment, where she is currently receiving medical attention. Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that she is responding to treatment.
Residents of the community were thrown into panic as the sound of gunfire echoed through the area. Many villagers reportedly remained indoors throughout the operation, fearing for their safety.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers appeared well-organized and carried out the operation within a short period before escaping with their victim.
The abduction has sent shockwaves across the kingdom, with community leaders, youth groups, and residents expressing concern over the deteriorating security situation in the area.
Following the incident, security agencies swung into action and launched a search-and-rescue operation aimed at securing the monarch’s release.
Police authorities confirmed the development and assured the public that efforts were underway to track down the kidnappers.
According to security sources, tactical police teams have been deployed alongside local hunters, vigilante groups, and other security operatives to comb forests and suspected hideouts where the abductors may be keeping the traditional ruler.
The Ondo State Police Command also appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in locating the monarch and apprehending the criminals responsible for the attack.
The latest incident adds to the growing list of kidnapping cases reported in parts of Ondo State and other regions across the country.
In recent years, traditional rulers, business owners, politicians, and other prominent individuals have increasingly become targets of criminal gangs seeking ransom payments.
Community stakeholders have urged both the state and federal governments to strengthen security architecture across rural communities, particularly around forest corridors that have become hideouts for criminal elements.
As of the time of filing this report, the whereabouts of Oba James Adelana remained unknown, while security operatives continued intensive efforts to secure his safe return.
Residents and community leaders have expressed hope that ongoing rescue operations will yield positive results and bring the monarch back to his family and subjects unharmed.
