In a distressing incident, a cattle farmer identified as Olushola Ayanshola has been abducted by suspected kidnappers along Otu-Alaga road in the Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State. The kidnappers have demanded a hefty sum of N30 million as ransom for his safe release, leaving the family of the cattle dealer in a state of confusion and despair.
According to reports, Ayanshola was returning from his farm on Sunday evening when two armed kidnappers intercepted his motorcycle and fired shots into the air, creating panic among motorists and passersby. The abductors swiftly whisked him away into the bush, despite efforts by his family and security agents to locate his whereabouts proving unsuccessful.
Ayanshola’s son, Olawale, revealed that the kidnappers contacted the family the following day, demanding the N30 million ransom. He shared that his father pleaded with him and his elder brother, Emmanuel, to find a way to raise the money, as the abductors had restrained him at an undisclosed location within the bush.
Recounting the incident, Olawale stated that the kidnappers ambushed his father as he was returning home from his farm near the Radio Station in Otu town. Witnesses who managed to escape the attack revealed that Ayanshola attempted to flee into the bush, like others at the scene, but was specifically targeted by the abductors. The kidnappers left his motorcycle behind, and it was those who escaped that raised the alarm, realizing that Ayanshola had been abducted.
The kidnappers have been unwavering in their demand for N30 million ransom, even after Ayanshola’s family pleaded for a reduction. In a harrowing phone call, Ayanshola begged his loved ones not to let the kidnappers kill him, as he was suffering in captivity. He suggested selling his property to raise the money, but his son informed him that their assets were worth far less than the demanded amount.
The family has taken immediate action, reporting the incident to the Otu Police Station and selling two cows to gather N500,000 towards the ransom. However, despite the efforts of the local security outfit, the Amotekun Corps, and local hunters combing the bush, the kidnappers remain at large. In fact, the abductors called the family to taunt them, stating that they were aware of the search operation and threatened to harm Ayanshola if they continued their pursuit.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, has confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, promising to provide updates as progress is made in the case. The family and concerned authorities are left anxiously awaiting a resolution to this distressing ordeal, hopeful for Ayanshola’s safe return.