Confusion has surrounded the reported abduction of an Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) chieftain, Comrade Bayo Fabiyi, and two other individuals in Oko-Irese, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Sources told reporters that Fabiyi, a driver, and another associate were allegedly abducted while travelling to deliver ransom and other items intended to secure the release of a kidnapping victim.
According to information gathered, the team was conveying about ₦30 million, five motorcycles, and three bags of rice when armed men reportedly ambushed them in the area.
The ransom delivery was said to be part of efforts to secure the freedom of a victim who had earlier been kidnapped within the same community.
However, a source familiar with the incident alleged that the victim had already been killed by the abductors before the ransom team arrived, a development that was reportedly unknown to those undertaking the mission.
The source further disclosed that the kidnappers allegedly directed the team to a forested area along a route linking Kwara and Kogi states, where they were subsequently seized at gunpoint.
Reports also indicated that Fabiyi had sought consultation before embarking on the trip and was allegedly advised against undertaking the journey. The warning, however, was reportedly ignored.
It was further gathered that the incident was not immediately reported to security agencies.
When contacted, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Ojo Adekimi, said the command had not received any formal report concerning the alleged abduction of an OPC member at the time of inquiry.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while efforts to ascertain the whereabouts of the abducted individuals continue.
Credit: Vanguard
