Ondo Community Attacked as Gunmen Abduct Pastor’s Nine-Year-Old Son

Fear and uncertainty have gripped residents of Igbosi community in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, following a violent overnight attack by armed men who abducted a nine-year-old boy and injured several residents.

The victim, identified as Olaosebikan Victor, is the son of a local pastor. Residents said the attackers invaded the community at about 1:30 a.m. on Friday, firing sporadically and causing panic among villagers, many of whom fled into nearby bushes and neighbouring communities to escape the assault.

Witnesses said the assailants moved from house to house, attempting to force entry into residential buildings while damaging property in the process. Several residents reportedly sustained injuries during the operation.

A family relative based in Akure, AbdulAzeez Adewuyi, confirmed the incident, saying relatives living in the affected community had temporarily relocated to Owo for safety.

According to him, family members narrowly escaped the attack and are currently taking refuge with relatives while security agencies continue efforts to rescue the abducted child.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident and disclosed that investigations had commenced.

Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said officers and local security operatives had intensified efforts to track down the kidnappers and secure the safe release of the victim.

The latest incident has heightened concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the South-West, where kidnappings and attacks on rural communities have become increasingly frequent.

The attack comes amid growing national anxiety over the safety of schools, communities and vulnerable populations following a series of abductions recorded in different parts of the country.