Ondo Community Recounts Terrifying New Year’s Eve Attack: Foiled Abduction Attempt Sparks Security Concerns
Residents of Ipele-Owo, a community within the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, have shared harrowing accounts of a daring invasion by armed gunmen on New Year’s Eve. The incident, which occurred around 10 PM, was reportedly a foiled attempt to abduct the local traditional ruler, throwing the community into a state of panic.
The assailants, estimated to be around 20 individuals riding on motorcycles, descended upon the town as many residents were preparing to attend crossover church services. Their aggressive actions included firing shots into the air and setting a police station located near the palace ablaze. This sudden violence forced both residents and police officers to seek immediate safety, with many fleeing into nearby bushes.
One eyewitness, identified only as Kunle, told reporters that the attackers’ primary objective was to reach the palace and abduct the monarch. The nearby police station was allegedly targeted due to its proximity to the royal residence, suggesting a deliberate attempt to neutralize security presence. Fortunately, the swift response of security operatives is credited with thwarting the abduction attempt and securing the monarch, preventing the assailants from accessing the palace.
Another resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the event as “terrifying,” highlighting the fear and chaos that ensued as people scrambled for safety amidst the gunfire. The restoration of calm was eventually achieved by security agents.
Traditional Ruler Urges Vigilance and Community Cooperation
His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo Kingdom and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Traditional Rulers, has issued a strong call for continued vigilance among the residents of Ipele. In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Sam Adewale, the monarch unequivocally condemned the New Year’s Eve assault, characterizing it as a malicious act aimed at disrupting peace and marring the festive spirit of the yuletide season.
Oba Ogunoye expressed profound relief that no lives were lost during the attack, emphasizing that the preservation of human life is paramount, despite the destruction of property. He extended his condolences to the traditional ruler of Ipele, the Nigeria Police Force, and the entire community, pledging his unwavering support and solidarity during this challenging period.
The monarch underscored the importance of security consciousness and proactive measures by citizens. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities or unfamiliar individuals to the nearest security agency or trusted community leaders. Oba Ogunoye stressed that effective community cooperation with security agencies is indispensable for safeguarding lives and property, asserting that collective responsibility remains the most potent strategy against criminal elements.
The statement concluded with prayers for divine protection for the people, security personnel, and the land. It expressed confidence that through unity, vigilance, collaboration with security agencies, and divine assistance, peace will continue to prevail across the Owo Local Government Area and Ondo State as a whole.
Police Vow to Apprehend Perpetrators, Governor Directs Intensified Security
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, has pledged a determined effort to apprehend the individuals responsible for the violent attack and the destruction of the police facility. Following his visit to the affected police station, accompanied by other senior officers, CP Lawal reiterated that no lives were lost and no churches were damaged during the incident, dispelling rumors circulating on social media.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been actively involved in addressing the security breach. He convened a meeting with security chiefs, including representatives from the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Amotekun Corps, to receive a comprehensive briefing on the attack.
“Following the meeting held with the governor, we will be able to assess the situation of what happened yesterday and come up with strategies that we would activate in ensuring this attack doesn’t occur again in our state,” stated CP Lawal. He assured the public of the security agencies’ readiness and commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
CP Lawal also addressed the classification of the attack, noting that while the motive and perpetrators are still under investigation, it is premature to definitively label it a “terrorist attack” without arrests and verified information. He acknowledged that Ondo State has historically been recognized as one of the safest states in Nigeria and emphasized that while proactive measures were in place, the recent events necessitate a more reactive security posture.
The police chief elaborated on the ongoing investigation, stating that once arrests are made and investigations are completed, a clearer picture will emerge regarding the individuals behind the attack and their affiliations. He assured the good people of Ondo State that the governor has issued a directive for the swift apprehension of the perpetrators and that the investigation has commenced.
Governor Aiyedatiwa confirmed that the attack occurred during the critical hours when many residents were participating in night services to welcome the new year. Upon receiving the initial reports, he immediately contacted the police and the Brigade Commander of the army, authorizing the deployment of additional security personnel to support ongoing patrols and enhance resident protection.
In response to the incident, Governor Aiyedatiwa has mandated an intensification of patrols across all communities and vulnerable forest areas. He stressed that security is a continuous, 24-hour responsibility, particularly during periods of heightened activity like festive seasons. The governor highlighted that security operatives, including members of the Joint Operations Task Force and Amotekun Rangers, were already actively engaged in patrols throughout the state and in its extensive forest regions.
