The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with the abduction and murder of a youth leader in Isua Akoko, the headquarters of Akoko South-East Local Government Area.
The victim, Ojo Abbey, popularly known as Obesere, was reportedly seized by armed men on February 22, 2026, while returning from Edo State. Residents said the attackers took him to a forested area, prompting widespread fear in the community.
A resident, who identified himself as Tunji, said local youths joined forces with hunters to search nearby bushes in an attempt to locate Abbey before news of his death emerged.
His decomposed body was later discovered on Saturday in a forest in Igara, Edo State.
Confirming the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said one suspect had been taken into custody and was providing information to assist investigators.
Jimoh explained that the case was reported at Isua Divisional Police Headquarters around 7:45 p.m. on February 22. Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer dispatched patrol teams to the area and recovered Abbey’s vehicle, a Nissan Almera with registration number KJA 440 DB.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, had directed increased surveillance and strategic deployments across the community and along the Ondo–Edo boundary to prevent further attacks and apprehend other suspects.
“The command expresses condolences to the family and assures residents that those responsible will face justice,” Jimoh stated.
Meanwhile, the Isua Youth Forum condemned the killing, describing it as a reflection of rising insecurity in the area. In a statement, its National President, Abimbola Oluwafemi, called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to intervene promptly.
The group also urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that all involved in the crime are identified and prosecuted. “The people of Isua demand visible and decisive action. Justice must not only be done but be seen to be done,” the statement added.
