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The agrarian community of Isua Akoko in Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State has been thrown into mourning following the abduction and killing of a popular youth, Ojo Abbey, widely known as ‘Obesere’.

Abbey was reportedly kidnapped on Thursday by armed men suspected to be herders while returning to Isua from Ibilo in Edo State.

A resident of the community explained that the gunmen intercepted Abbey and took him into the forest along the Ondo–Edo boundary, and the incident was promptly reported to the police.

A resident, who identified himself as Tunji, said the matter was reported to the police shortly after it occurred.

According to him, the community youths, in collaboration with local hunters, launched search operations across the surrounding bushes in an effort to rescue Abbey, but were unsuccessful.

Tragically, the search ended over the weekend when his lifeless body was discovered in a forest in Igara, Edo State.

A source involved in the recovery operation said the remains had begun decomposing before they were found, suggesting he may have been killed shortly after his abduction.

Reacting to the development, the Isua Youth Forum, in a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Abimbola Oluwafemi, described the killing as a reflection of worsening insecurity in the area.

He called on the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to urgently intervene and address the rising insecurity in Isua and the entire Akoko South-East axis.

The group also urged the state Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.

“Every individual involved in this heinous crime must be identified, apprehended, and brought to justice. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. The people of Isua and our local government area are watching, and we demand decisive action,” the statement read.

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abayomi Jimoh, said a suspect had been arrested in connection with the crime and is currently in custody assisting with ongoing investigations.

He added that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, had ordered intensified surveillance and strategic deployments across the affected communities and along the Ondo–Edo boundary to prevent further attacks and ensure the arrest of fleeing suspects.

According to the police spokesperson, “The incident was reported at the Isua Divisional Police Headquarters at about 7:45 p.m. on February 22, 2026, by a resident who stated that Ojo Abbey was abducted by armed men suspected to be herdsmen while returning from Ibilo.

“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.

“The Command commiserates with the family of the deceased and assures the public that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be brought to justice.”

The state police command urged residents to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities without fear, saying, “The Command remains resolute and fully committed to combating crime and criminality across the state.” (Sunday Tribune)