Ondo community raises alarm over incessant killings

Residents of the Akotogbo community in the Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State have expressed growing concern over recurring killings in the agrarian community, following the deaths of two residents within a few months.

Akotogbo, a farm settlement inhabited by different ethnic groups, including Ikales, Edos, Urhobos, Itsekiris, Ijaws, and Hausa/Fulani residents, has recently witnessed incidents that have heightened fear and tension among residents.

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It was gathered that a farmer and grassroots politician, Mr. Bode Loyinmi, was allegedly killed a few months ago after leaving home for his farm.

Residents said the deceased, who was tipped to emerge as a Supervisory Councillor in the area, never returned home after going to the farm.

A member of the community who identified himself as Arogundade lamented that no arrest had been made in connection with the incident, leaving his family devastated.

In another incident, a resident identified as Mr. Andrew Friday was reportedly found dead after allegedly receiving a phone call in the early hours of Friday, May 8, before leaving home without informing anyone of his destination.

It was gathered that his family became worried after he failed to return home, prompting youths in the community to organise a search, and later discovered his lifeless body.

A family source disclosed that his lifeless body was discovered with a handset suspected to belong to his assailants, reportedly found near the scene.

The incidents have created fear among residents, particularly youths in the community, with many calling on security agencies and the Ondo State Government to intervene and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

Residents also appealed to the Executive Chairman of Irele Local Government, Deacon Olajide Akinfe, to strengthen the security presence in the area.

Reacting to the development, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Abayomi Jimoh, said the command was aware of the incidents and had intensified security operations in the community.

He said that robust security measures had been put in place within Akotogbo and adjoining communities to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

According to him, operatives of the State Intelligence Department (SID) and other tactical units have been deployed to gather intelligence and tackle criminal activities in the area.

Abayomi further reassured the public that efforts were ongoing to identify, arrest, and prosecute those behind the killings, stressing the state’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.