Abductors of Osun Local Govt Vice-Chairman Demand Additional ₦30 Million Ransom

Kidnappers holding Debo Farounbi, the Vice-Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government Area in Osun State, have demanded a fresh ₦30 million ransom, nearly two months after he was first taken into captivity.

Farounbi was abducted on June 9, 2026, when armed men invaded Ora-Igbomina. While military personnel intervened and rescued three other individuals seized during the raid, the attackers managed to escape into the forest with the local government official.

Community sources and council staff revealed that an initial ₦30 million ransom, along with requested medications, was raised by the community and delivered to the kidnappers four weeks ago. However, instead of releasing the 59-year-old official, the abductors issued a demand for an additional ₦30 million and a vehicle.

Local community leaders confirmed that ongoing negotiations and efforts to raise additional funds have yet to secure his release.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Osun State Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, stated he was unaware of the new ransom demand, adding that two suspects previously arrested in connection with the abduction have been charged and remanded in prison custody.

The incident marks the third abduction reported in the Ora-Igbomina area over the past eight months, highlighting growing security concerns along the border between Osun and Kwara States.