By Paul Aondoakaa 

Suspected kidnappers have abducted the Baale of Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State during a late-night attack on his palace. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, also left the monarch's wife injured after she was reportedly shot during the invasion.

Suspected armed bandits have abducted the Baale of Ode Oriya community, Adeniyi Adelana, following a violent attack on his palace in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 8:05 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, when approximately six armed men stormed the traditional ruler's residence and forcefully whisked him away.

According to the Ondo State Police Command, a distress call was received shortly after the attack, prompting the immediate deployment of security operatives to the area.

In a statement confirming the incident, police said preliminary investigations indicated that the attackers invaded the palace under the cover of darkness before escaping through nearby bush paths with the victim.

During the attack, the traditional ruler's wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was reportedly rescued and rushed to a medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.

The Ondo State Police Command disclosed that a combined team of operatives and tactical units has been mobilised to conduct search-and-rescue operations across surrounding forests and suspected escape routes.

The Commissioner of Police has also directed intensified intelligence-driven operations aimed at tracking down the perpetrators and securing the safe release of the abducted traditional ruler.

Authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm while remaining vigilant, urging members of the public to report suspicious activities and movements that could assist ongoing investigations.

The incident has heightened concerns about insecurity and the growing threat of abductions in parts of Ondo State. Community leaders and residents have increasingly expressed worries over attacks targeting rural communities and prominent local figures.

As of the time of filing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the abduction, and security agencies continue efforts to rescue the monarch and apprehend those responsible.