Fear is spreading across communities in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State as kidnappings, shootings and ransom-driven attacks continue to disrupt daily life.

Residents say the wave of violence has forced many families to abandon their homes and farms while others relocate to safer parts of the state.

Akure North, one of the largest local government areas in Ondo, is largely made up of farming communities. In recent months, however, it has become a flashpoint for criminal attacks that include abductions and killings.

Residents abandon homes as attacks rise

Several residents say they now live in constant fear of being kidnapped.

A couple identified as Mr. and Mrs. Oladimeji recently left their home in Ilu-Abo community and moved to Akure after a friend in their neighborhood was abducted.

“Since the abduction of my friend, we have been living in fear,” Oladimeji said. “I had to look for a small apartment in Akure to stay for now.”

He added that the family may eventually sell their house if the security situation does not improve.

Reports indicate that some farmers and non-indigenes who depend on agriculture for their livelihood have also begun relocating to safer locations.

Series of kidnappings and killings

The security concerns follow several violent incidents recorded in the area over the past year.

Last year, at least 14 people were shot dead in attacks on four communities in Akure North, including Ademekun, Aba Pastor, Aba Sunday and Alajido.

More recently, kidnappers have targeted individuals believed to have financial means.

In January, three people, including a pregnant woman and a school proprietor, were abducted in Eleyowo, Ilu-Abo and Ayede communities while another resident was shot dead.

In February, gunmen kidnapped a man identified as Jamiu Olawale and his wife and also shot their neighbour. That same month, the traditional ruler of Agamo community, Oba Kehinde Falodun, was killed by bandits.

The latest case involved the abduction of the Secretary of the Okeluju Local Council Development Area, Kayode Aladesuyi, and another victim identified as Esther. They were reportedly kidnapped on a farm in the Kajola area of Akure North.

Authorities suspect local collaborators

Community leaders and security officials say some kidnappings may be aided by collaborators within the communities.

Oba Olu Falae, the traditional ruler of Ilu-Abo and a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said some residents may be providing information about potential victims to criminal gangs.

“They came specifically for certain victims because they knew they could demand a good ransom,” Falae said.

He added that collaborators who tip off kidnappers often receive a share of the ransom.

Government vows stronger action

The Ondo State government said it is aware of the role of criminal collaborators and has ordered security agencies to intensify operations against kidnapping networks.

The state Commissioner for Information, Idowu Ajanaku, said authorities have directed security agencies to clamp down on individuals involved in such activities.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged the existence of criminal syndicates involving both locals and outsiders.

“Crime is usually carried out by syndicates. Some provide information while others carry out the abductions,” the governor said.

Security forces step up operations

Police say additional tactical teams have been deployed to the affected communities.

Ondo State Police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh said the operatives will carry out 24-hour patrols, surveillance and intelligence operations in communities including Ilu-Abo, Ayede and Ogbese.

Security agencies have also intensified joint patrols, stop-and-search operations and raids targeting suspected criminal hideouts in forest areas.

Despite these efforts, security experts and residents say more needs to be done. They are calling for improved funding, modern technology and stronger collaboration between security agencies and local hunters to tackle the growing threat.

For many residents in Akure North, the fear remains constant as communities wait to see whether the renewed security measures will bring lasting relief.