February 25, 2026
SUNTV Global Channel – News
Ondo State is reportedly sliding into a deepening security crisis as kidnappings continue almost daily, prompting calls for an urgent review of the state’s security architecture. Human rights lawyer Tope Temokun expressed concern over the alarming rise in abductions and public protests in the state.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Temokun highlighted recent incidents, including the abduction of worshippers at a Celestial Church in Uso, Owo, and repeated kidnappings around the Eleyewo/Ilu-Abo axis, which led residents to barricade roads in protest.
“Within just a few days, disturbing security incidents have continued to emerge in Ondo State,” Temokun said.
“Worshippers abducted at a Celestial Church in Uso, Owo. Abductions around the Eleyewo/Ilu-Abo axis have prompted angry residents to block roads, demanding immediate action.”
Temokun emphasized that these incidents are part of a worrying pattern.
“These are not isolated events. They reflect a trend that citizens can no longer ignore,” he said.
The lawyer questioned whether state authorities still had control over the situation.
“When communities are forced to protest for safety because kidnappings occur almost daily, it signals a loss of control that demands urgent review,” he added.
Frustration among residents of Akure and Owo has grown, with several communities taking to the streets to demand government intervention. Temokun warned that fear has become an everyday reality for many.
“Ondo State is gradually sliding, one kidnapping at a time. Communities now live in constant fear,” he said.
He criticized the state’s security leadership, suggesting misplaced priorities at a time of escalating danger.
“Yet the Amotekun Commander seems more preoccupied with internal conflicts over appointments than addressing the worsening security crisis,” Temokun noted.
Temokun called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to urgently reassess the state’s security management strategy to restore public confidence.
“Security is not about titles or positions. It is about results and the safety of the people,” he said.
“Perhaps now is the time for a sincere review and necessary shake-up of Ondo State’s security apparatus before public trust collapses completely.”
Drawing comparisons to controversies surrounding the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Temokun alleged a similar pattern of leadership crisis in Ondo. Critics such as Ekujumi Julius have reportedly been declared wanted, and other agencies are being drawn into proxy conflicts.
“When a security chief accumulates more enemies, judgment debts, and court cases for his principal than results, it may signal the need for a change in leadership,” Temokun warned.
He concluded by urging a full security audit of Ondo State.
“Is it not time for a comprehensive security audit in Ondo State?” he asked.
