Armed men on Tuesday night stormed Ora-Igbomina in Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State and abducted the council’s Vice-Chairman, Debo Faroumbi, despite a swift security response that rescued three other victims.

Residents said the attackers invaded the community, firing gunshots into the air and causing widespread panic before abducting four people, including two Fulani women, another resident and the local government official.

Military personnel stationed in the area reportedly engaged the gunmen shortly after the attack and pursued them into nearby forests. The pressure forced the assailants to release three captives, but they escaped with Faroumbi.

Confirming the incident, Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said security agencies had launched a coordinated manhunt to rescue the abducted official and arrest the suspects.

“Yes, some yet-to-be-identified gunmen stormed Ora-Igbomina in Ifedayo Local Government and abducted four persons. However, military engagement forced them to abandon three of the victims,” Ojelabi said.

“They eventually succeeded in taking Debo Faroumbi into the forest, and the police, alongside other security agencies, have launched a manhunt for the suspects.”

The latest abduction highlights continuing security concerns in parts of the country, with authorities assuring residents that ongoing operations are focused on securing the victim’s safe release and bringing those responsible to justice. (The Sun)