Fatimah Otunsanya
Suspected gunmen have killed a woman and her daughter at a poultry farm in Igushi community, near Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, also saw three other workers abducted by the assailants.
Sources in the community said the gunmen gained access to the farm by scaling the fence and attempted to kidnap workers before shooting the two victims.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers later took three persons away from the farm.
He said, “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.
“We quickly called the police and the Amotekun, who mobilised their men to the scene. They’ve later rescued the victims.”
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a statement, saying efforts were ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.
The PPRO said, “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.
“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.”
Recent attacks and abductions have raised security concerns in parts of Ondo State, particularly around Akure and its surrounding communities, with residents repeatedly calling for increased security presence in rural areas.
