The Vice-Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State, Debo Faroumbi, has been abducted by gunmen who attacked Ora-Igbomina community on Tuesday night despite a swift response by security operatives.
Residents said the assailants stormed the town and fired several gunshots, creating panic among residents before whisking away four persons, including Faroumbi, two Fulani women and another resident.
Sources in the community disclosed that military personnel deployed in the area quickly mobilised and engaged the attackers in a gun battle shortly after the incident.
The security pressure reportedly forced the gunmen to release three of the abducted victims while fleeing into a nearby forest with the council vice-chairman.
Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, said security agencies had commenced a coordinated operation to rescue the victim and apprehend those behind the attack.
Ojelabi said the gunmen invaded Ora-Igbomina and abducted four people before military intervention led to the release of three captives.
He explained that the abductors, however, succeeded in escaping with Faroumbi, adding that security operatives were on their trail.
According to him, the police and other security agencies have intensified efforts to track down the suspects and ensure the safe return of the abducted official.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of the country, as residents continue to call for stronger measures to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes.