Kidnapped nine-year-old Ondo pastor’s son regains freedom after three weeks in captivity
By Julius Alabi, Akure
Residents of Idogun community in the Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State erupted in jubilation on Sunday following the safe release of nine-year-old Master Victor Oluwatobi, who was abducted by unknown gunmen three weeks ago.
The boy, son of a local pastor, was kidnapped on Friday, June 5, 2026, when armed assailants invaded Ugbosi Quarters in Idogun at midnight.
The attackers reportedly destroyed two buildings in a failed attempt to abduct the landlords, who managed to escape during the chaos.
However, in the confusion that ensued, the young boy was left behind by his father, Pastor Oluwatobi, who was unable to rescue all his children in time.
The child, said to have been fast asleep when the gunmen struck, was subsequently taken away by the attackers.
For weeks, anxiety gripped the community as the boy remained in captivity, while security agencies intensified efforts to secure his release.
The Ondo State Government swiftly mobilised a joint security operation involving the Army, Police, Amotekun Corps, and local vigilantes, who combed forests and surrounding communities in a relentless search for the abductors.
Confirming the development on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, announced that the boy had been safely rescued through the coordinated efforts of security operatives and reunited with his family.
Ajanaku expressed profound gratitude to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his prompt intervention and steadfast commitment throughout the period of the boy’s captivity, noting that the government’s swift response provided reassurance to the family and residents of the area.
He commended the professionalism, dedication, and sacrifice of the security agencies involved in the operation, describing the successful rescue as a testament to effective collaboration among security stakeholders in the state.
While acknowledging the resilience of the victim’s family during the ordeal, the commissioner assured residents that the government remains committed to strengthening security architecture across the state to safeguard lives and property.
The boy’s release has been widely celebrated in Idogun and beyond, with residents expressing appreciation to the state government and security agencies for their tireless efforts in ensuring his safe return.
