The Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State, Mr Maurice Oripenaye, has raised the alarm over the alleged abduction of APC chieftain Prince Emorioloye Owoloemi, who remains missing several days after the incident in Igbokoda on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The council boss called on security agencies to ensure the safe release of the victim.
Oripenaye, in a statement issued on Sunday, January 18, 2026, said armed men stormed Emorioloye’s office at approximately 9:00 a.m. on the day of the incident in two Hilux vehicles. He described the attack as a “flagrant violation of public safety” and “an assault on the peace-loving people of Ilaje,” noting that the victim’s present whereabouts remain unknown.
Prince Emorioloye, described by the council chairman as a respected media and political figure and the Director-General of Asiwaju Media Team, was reportedly taken from his workplace in broad daylight.
The abduction has drawn concern from community members and political stakeholders over rising security threats to local leaders and political operatives in the region.
Oripenaye condemned the act as “utterly condemnable and unacceptable,” urging residents to refrain from spreading unverified information that could hinder ongoing efforts to secure the victim’s safe return. He emphasised the importance of calm and cooperation with security agencies as investigations continue.
In the statement, the council chairman highlighted that all efforts to contact Emorioloye since the abduction have proved futile. He appealed for coordinated action by the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, and other relevant security agencies to ensure the victim’s release without harm.
Oripenaye extended solidarity to the family, friends, and associates of Emorioloye during the “distressing period,” while reaffirming that public safety remains a top priority for the local government. He noted that although information remains limited, a “full-scale investigation has commenced.”
The abduction of a prominent political figure in Ilaje highlights ongoing security challenges faced by political actors and residents in parts of Ondo State.
The incident raises broader concerns about the safety of public officials and community leaders, emphasising the need for strengthened security measures and closer collaboration among enforcement agencies.
Oripenaye’s appeal underlines the urgent requirement for effective protective strategies that safeguard lives and uphold civic stability, particularly in local government areas where political engagement is active.
Security agencies have been called upon to expedite efforts to locate and rescue Emorioloye. The Ilaje Local Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and maintaining peace, urging the public to assist authorities with credible information that could support the investigation.
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