The Ondo State Government has confirmed the release of nine-year-old Victor Oluwatobi, who was abducted by gunmen in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area, nearly three weeks ago.
The State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, announced the boy’s rescue while addressing journalists in Akure on Tuesday, describing the development as a major relief for the victim’s family and residents of the affected community.
According to Ajanaku, Victor, who was kidnapped on June 5, 2026, regained his freedom through the sustained efforts of security operatives deployed to secure his release.
He said the state government responded swiftly after the incident by mobilising security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, the police, the Amotekun Corps and local vigilante groups, to track down the kidnappers and rescue the victim.
The commissioner noted that intensive search operations were carried out across forests and neighbouring communities within and around Ose Local Government Area during the period of the boy’s captivity.
Ajanaku commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his prompt intervention and commitment to ensuring the safe return of the child, saying the governor remained actively involved throughout the rescue efforts.
He added that the government’s response provided hope and reassurance to the victim’s family, the people of Idogun and other residents of the local government area.
The commissioner also praised the resilience displayed by the family during the ordeal and lauded the security personnel involved in the operation for their professionalism, dedication and sacrifice.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to public safety, Ajanaku assured residents that the government would continue to strengthen security measures across the state to protect lives and property.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with credible information that could help prevent and combat criminal activities.
