A 45-year-old timber contractor, Bayo Omoniyi, has escaped from the custody of suspected kidnappers after spending five days in captivity in the Akoko area of Ondo State.
Omoniyi reportedly found an opportunity to break away from his abductors after being held in a bush where he allegedly endured harsh conditions during his captivity.
The victim was kidnapped along the Idoani-Ifira Road in Ifira-Akoko, Ondo State, and was taken into the bush by the suspected gunmen before his eventual escape.
Following his release, Omoniyi was taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical attention as he recovered from the ordeal.
A community leader, Chief Boboye Ojomo, who confirmed the development, said the contractor had gone through a difficult experience while in the hands of the abductors.
“We thank God that he was able to escape and return safely,” Ojomo said, noting that residents were relieved by the victim’s safe return.
Ojomo called for stronger security measures along the Orita-Ipele-Idoani-Ifira axis, particularly around bad portions of the road which he said could provide an advantage for criminal elements.
Efforts to obtain confirmation from the Ondo State Police Command were unsuccessful as calls placed to the command’s spokesperson could not be connected at the time of filing the report.
