Lagos, Nigeria – June 5, 2026
Fear gripped residents of the Igbosi area of Idogun in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State in the early hours of Friday after armed bandits stormed the community, destroyed residential buildings, and abducted a nine-year-old boy.
The victim, identified as Oluwatobi Olaosebikan, is the son of a local pastor, Mr Isaac Olaosebikan.
According to residents, the attackers invaded the community at about 1:00 a.m., firing sporadically into the air to instil fear and force residents to flee their homes. Amid the chaos, the gunmen reportedly vandalised and damaged two houses before whisking away the young boy to an unknown destination.
Witnesses said many residents abandoned their homes and fled into neighbouring communities and nearby bushes for safety as gunshots echoed through the area.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command said the attack was reported at about 2:30 a.m. on Friday by Mr Isaac Olaosebikan and another resident, Mr Joel Owalekan.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the armed men invaded Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun at approximately 1:30 a.m., shooting indiscriminately and causing widespread panic.
The police spokesman disclosed that the assailants forced their way into the residence of Mr Olaosebikan. In a desperate bid to save his life, the pastor fled into the surrounding bush, leaving behind his son, who was subsequently abducted by the attackers.
Mr Owalekan also reported that his residence was damaged during the assault as the gunmen attempted to gain entry. He reportedly escaped unharmed after fleeing the scene.
Police, Amotekun Launch Rescue Operation
The Ondo State Police Command also said a coordinated search-and-rescue operation was immediately launched following the incident.
Security personnel, including operatives of the police and the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, were mobilised to the area and have begun combing the surrounding forests and suspected escape routes in an effort to locate the abducted child and apprehend the perpetrators.
“The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an intensive manhunt for suspected kidnappers who abducted a nine-year-old boy during a violent attack on residents of Ugbosi Quarters, Idogun, in Ose Local Government Area of the state,” the command said in a statement.
The police further disclosed that investigations into the incident have commenced, while relevant evidence recovered from the scene is being analysed to aid ongoing efforts.
Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed tactical units, intelligence operatives, and other security assets of the command to intensify efforts towards the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of those responsible for the attack.
The command also said it is collaborating with other security agencies, local vigilante groups, and community stakeholders to ensure the criminals are brought to justice.
Growing Concern Over Rural Security
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the security situation in parts of Ondo State, particularly in rural communities where residents have repeatedly raised alarm over the activities of kidnappers and armed criminals.
For many residents of Idogun, Friday’s attack was another painful reminder of the insecurity confronting vulnerable communities across the country.
As security agencies intensify rescue efforts, the immediate concern remains the safe return of the abducted child and the swift apprehension of those behind the attack.
The Conscience Times will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as they emerge.
