Tension has gripped parts of Abeokuta following reports that a community vigilante leader has gone into hiding after surviving a brutal attack linked to his role in exposing a kidnapping syndicate.
Mr. Shomoye Kayode Adekunle, 43, was said to have provided intelligence in August 2024 that led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers operating in Obafe Owode Local Government Area.
The suspects, later identified as Chukwudi Okeke (34), Tunde Akinyemi (42), Emeka Nwachukwu (38), Kolawole Adediran (29), Ifeanyi Eze (40), Adeola Ogunleye (33), Nnamdi Ubah (45), and Segun Adebayo (31), were taken into custody, but two were subsequently released under unclear circumstances.
Community members reported that following the release, Mr. Shomoye became a target. Strange vehicles were seen trailing him, his house in Panseke was vandalized, and his family allegedly received threats.
The situation escalated on 11 December 2024, when unknown assailants ambushed him at night and stabbed him in the neck. He survived the attack after receiving emergency medical treatment but was left with a deep scar.
Since the incident, Mr. Shomoye’s whereabouts have remained unknown. Residents say he left the area suddenly, and it is unclear whether he remains within Ogun State or has fled further.
Security analysts in the state suggest that the attack reflects the growing danger faced by local vigilantes who collaborate with law enforcement against organized criminal groups. “These gangs operate with powerful backing and are determined to silence anyone who stands against them,” one analyst said.
At the time of this report, police authorities had not issued a formal statement on the case, and community members remain fearful of further reprisals.
