Gunmen Abduct Traditional Ruler in Ondo 

By James Sowole in Akure

The traditional ruler of Iyansan Town in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Abiodun Oyewumi, was late Monday abducted by gunmen

The gunmen were said to have entered the community through Owena River at the boundary between Ondo and Edo States around 10:30 pm.

The source said the kidnappers  reportedly went straight to the palace of the traditional ruler and whisked him away.

Also, the source stated that the kidnappers had not contacted the family of the monarch for ransom and the whereabouts of the traditional ruler.

Reacting  to the development, the Chairman of Irele Local Government area of the state, Mr. Sanmi Elumaro, explained that the kidnappers numbering about ten came into the town through the waterways and headed to the palace.

According to the chairman, the kidnappers were heavily armed and none of the residents could challenge or confront them while the operation was going on.

Elumaro  said the men of the Nigerian Navy and the police in the riverine area of the state had been on the trail of the suspected kidnappers, expressing optimism that the hoodlums would be apprehended.

The Police Public Relation Officer, Mr. Femi Joseph confirmed the abduction of the monarch, saying the command had begun investigation on the matter.

“We have begun manhunt for the kidnappers and I am very sure the monarch would be rescued unhurt very soon”, Joseph said.