By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Suspected gunmen have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya Village, Adeniyi Adelana, in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, after attacking his palace at about 8:00 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2026. The attackers, believed to be six in number, forcefully took the monarch through a nearby bush path and shot his wife in the right hand during the assault. The Ondo State Police Command has launched a massive search-and-rescue operation to secure the monarch’s release and arrest the kidnappers.
Gunmen Invade Palace, Abduct Monarch
Residents said the armed men stormed the monarch’s palace on Friday evening and overpowered those present. They then dragged the traditional ruler into a nearby forest before fleeing.
According to locals, the attackers operated in a coordinated manner, leaving residents in fear.
Monarch’s Wife Suffers Gunshot Injury
During the attack, the monarch’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand.
The spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday.
He said the injured woman received immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital.
“In the course of the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was promptly rescued and taken to a nearby medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively to medical care,” Jimoh said.
Police Launch Rescue Operation
Jimoh disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, led officers to the scene immediately after receiving a distress call.
He added that the command has begun an intensive search across nearby forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes.
“Tactical deployments have also been strengthened across the area and adjoining communities to enhance operational effectiveness,” he stated.
Community Gripped by Anxiety
The abduction has created tension across Ode Oriya Village as residents await the safe return of their traditional ruler.
Police assured the community that officers will sustain the rescue operation until the monarch is safely rescued and those responsible face justice.
