Fear and grief swept through Igushi community on the outskirts of Akure, Ondo State capital, after suspected gunmen attacked a poultry farm, killing a woman and her daughter.
The incident, which happened on Thursday, also left three workers in the hands of the assailants, who reportedly stormed the farm under cover of darkness.
Residents said the attackers scaled the perimeter fence to gain entry, catching those on the premises off guard. Their initial move, sources noted, appeared to be a kidnapping attempt, but it quickly turned deadly.
A local resident, who spoke anonymously, said the gunmen, believed to be about five in number, forcefully took three people away before fleeing the scene.
“The gunmen came through the fence. They were about five and took three people away. Later, we found the woman who owns the poultry and her daughter dead,” he said.
According to him, the community immediately alerted security agencies, prompting a swift response from both the police and the Amotekun Corps, who later succeeded in rescuing some of the victims.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, condemned the attack and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to bring those responsible to book.
“The Ondo State Police Command strongly condemns the heinous, violent incident at Igushin via Ala, Akure, which led to the tragic loss of two innocent lives. While two victims were successfully rescued through a swift and coordinated operation, the Command expresses deep sorrow over the unfortunate deaths recorded,” he said.
He added that security had been reinforced in the area, with ongoing operations aimed at tracking down the perpetrators.
“Command assures the people that adequate security measures have been put in place to ensure the security of lives and property while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators, and the Command also assures the public that those responsible will be brought to justice.
“Residents are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and useful information,” Jimoh stated.
The latest attack has further heightened anxiety among residents of Akure and neighbouring communities, where cases of abduction and violent assaults have become increasingly frequent, sparking renewed calls for stronger security presence in rural areas.
