The Ogun State Police Command has successfully thwarted a kidnap attempt along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, neutralizing four suspected kidnappers and rescuing their victims unharmed. The incident, which occurred on the evening of February 20, 2025, highlights the ongoing security challenges on one of Nigeria’s busiest highways and underscores the swift response of law enforcement agencies to protect citizens.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, the operation was carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command. The team responded to a distress call after a commercial vehicle was ambushed by armed men along the Warewa axis of the Long Bridge. The suspects, armed with firearms and dangerous weapons, had forcefully halted the vehicle and began robbing passengers at gunpoint.
The targeted vehicle, a white Paragon commercial bus with registration number BDG 753 YH, was en route to Lagos and driven by Mr. Morufu Adedeji. The assailants, described as heavily armed, took advantage of a lonely section of the road to launch their attack. As they began robbing passengers, some individuals managed to escape through the rear door, which had been courageously opened by the driver. This act of defiance infuriated the kidnappers, who brutally assaulted the driver, leaving him unconscious.
The timely intervention of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, which was on routine patrol in the area, proved decisive. Upon receiving the distress call, the operatives swiftly engaged the suspects in a gun duel. Four of the armed men were fatally injured during the exchange, while others fled into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds. The police recovered several items from the scene, including a locally made pistol with two cartridges, two daggers, a cash sum of ₦20,000, a Tecno Android phone, a solar power bank, and three USB lights believed to be stolen property.
The bodies of the neutralized suspects have been deposited at the State Hospital Morgue in Ijaiye, Abeokuta, for autopsy and further investigation. Meanwhile, the rescued victims, including the driver, were unharmed and have been provided with necessary support.
The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to eradicating criminal activities in the state and ensuring the safety of residents and commuters. In response to the incident, he has ordered the reinforcement of tactical operatives at strategic flashpoints, particularly in the Arepo area, and heightened routine patrols along the expressway.
The Ogun State Police Command has also called on members of the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds. This appeal is part of broader efforts to track down the suspects who escaped with injuries. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a critical transportation corridor connecting Nigeria’s commercial hub to other parts of the country, has witnessed a surge in criminal activities in recent years. Kidnappings, armed robberies, and other forms of violence have become increasingly common, raising concerns about the safety of commuters. The latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent security challenges on the route and the need for sustained efforts to address them.
The successful operation by the Ogun State Police Command has been widely praised, with many commending the bravery and professionalism of the officers involved. However, it has also sparked renewed calls for enhanced security measures along the expressway, including the installation of surveillance cameras, increased police presence, and improved lighting in vulnerable areas.
For residents and commuters, the incident is a mixed blessing. While the swift response of the police is a cause for relief, the brazenness of the attack underscores the need for continued vigilance. Many have taken to social media to share their experiences and express their concerns, with some calling for the deployment of military personnel to complement the efforts of the police.
The Ogun State Government has also weighed in on the matter, pledging to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of all road users. In a statement, the government reiterated its commitment to tackling crime and improving security infrastructure across the state.
As investigations into the incident continue, the Ogun State Police Command has assured the public that no stone will be left unturned in bringing the fleeing suspects to justice. The Command has also urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and accurate information that could aid in the apprehension of criminals.
The foiled kidnap attempt on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is a testament to the bravery and dedication of Nigeria’s security forces. It also serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility shared by all citizens in the fight against crime. By remaining vigilant and working together, Nigerians can help create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
In the meantime, the Ogun State Police Command has vowed to maintain its proactive approach to crime prevention, ensuring that criminals have no hiding place within the state. As Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo aptly put it, “The safety and security of our people remain our top priority. We will continue to do everything within our power to protect lives and property.”
For now, commuters along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway can breathe a little easier, knowing that the police are on high alert and ready to respond to any threat. However, the incident is a sobering reminder that the fight against crime is far from over, and sustained efforts are needed to secure Nigeria’s highways and communities.
