Fear has once again gripped residents of Ondo State as gunmen suspected to be kidnappers abducted three members of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry in the Akure North Local Government Area. The victims were reportedly kidnapped on Monday evening while returning from a Bible study session.
The incident occurred around the Kasemola area in Ogbese, a quiet settlement within the Akure North axis. According to sources within the church, the gunmen had been lying in wait for their victims and swiftly attacked as the trio made their way home from the service.
A member of the church who confirmed the incident but pleaded anonymity sent a message to other worshippers, appealing for prayers. “Good morning, beloved. Kindly pray along with us. Three of our members were kidnapped yesterday (Monday) after Bible study at Kasemola inside the Ogbese axis,” the message read.
Sources revealed that the victims were forced into a nearby bush, sparking panic among church members and residents of the community. The attack has left many locals terrified, with some expressing fears about attending evening programmes due to the rise in insecurity in the area.
In a swift response, the Ondo State Police Command confirmed the abduction. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Olayinka Ayanlade, said security agents had already swung into action. “We have deployed our operatives into the community, and we are working with other security outfits including the Amotekun Corps to ensure the victims are rescued,” he said.
According to Ayanlade, the joint task force is already combing the forests and bush paths around Ogbese to track down the kidnappers. “Our men are on the ground and determined to bring the victims back safely. We urge the public to remain calm and provide any useful information to aid our operation,” he added.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the abductors have reached out to the families of the victims, demanding a ransom of ₦5 million for their release. As of the time of filing this report, negotiations were ongoing between the abductors and representatives of the church.
Residents of the Kasemola and Ogbese communities have called on the state government and security agencies to intensify patrols and enhance community policing. Some described the road leading into the area as poorly lit and under-patrolled, making it a soft target for criminals.
“This is not the first time we are hearing about kidnappings in this area,” said Mr. Adesina, a local shop owner. “Government must help us. We are not safe anymore. Even Bible study now comes with fear.”
Church members have begun holding special prayer sessions for the release of the abducted persons. Leaders of the Deeper Life church in Ondo have reportedly reached out to both state authorities and national church headquarters for support and intervention.
Amotekun operatives in the state have also pledged their support. A senior official of the corps who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “We are coordinating with the police and other stakeholders. We will do everything possible to rescue the victims alive and unhurt.”
The Ondo State Government is yet to release an official statement on the incident, but sources close to the state security council disclosed that the governor had been briefed and might address the situation publicly in the coming days.
Kidnappings have remained a major concern in parts of Ondo, especially in forested rural communities. Stakeholders continue to call for synergy between traditional rulers, local vigilante groups, and formal security agencies to end the menace.
The fate of the three Deeper Life members hangs in the balance as the community, church members, and security operatives work tirelessly to ensure their safe return.
