Confusion have spread across Ekiti State after the Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government Area, Grace Ogunleye, was reportedly arrested for allegedly arranging her own kidnap.
The development has stirred reactions among residents and political observers across the state, many had earlier feared she was abducted by gunmen along the Ipere–Iludun Ekiti road.
However, the story later took a dramatic turn after security investigations reportedly linked the local government official to the incident.
The Executive Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Pius Dada, confirmed the development in a statement released on Friday.
According to him, security authorities apprehended Mrs Ogunleye after carrying out investigations into the alleged abduction.
“The attention of the Executive Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government has been drawn to the unfortunate incident involving the Vice Chairman, who was reportedly involved in a self-kidnapping arrangement and subsequently apprehended by the relevant security authorities,” Mr Dada said.
“This development is disturbing, and entirely unacceptable,” he added.
The incident first gained attention days earlier when reports claimed that the vice chairman had been kidnapped while returning from an official engagement.
At the time, residents expressed serious concern over insecurity within the local government area.
Moreover, tension had already been high following previous reports of worshippers being abducted within the same community.
According to earlier reports, her vehicle was later discovered abandoned beside the lonely road linking Ipere and Iludun Ekiti.
Meanwhile, her phone lines reportedly became unreachable shortly after the incident.
The Director of Information and Civic Orientation in the council, Falade Sunday, had initially confirmed the suspected kidnap.
“The Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Mrs Grace Ogunleye, has reportedly been kidnapped along Ipere–Iludun Ekiti road,” Mr Sunday had earlier stated.
“According to reports, her vehicle was later found abandoned while her whereabouts remain unknown.”
However, fresh claims later surfaced online suggesting that the alleged abduction may have been staged.
A Facebook user identified as Festus Olanrewaju Ojo alleged that the vice chairman arranged the incident herself.
The post claimed the action was linked to promises allegedly made to a politician after money reportedly exchanged hands.
Furthermore, the social media post also alleged that police authorities had already arrested her.
Although security agencies have yet to release full details, investigations into the matter are said to be ongoing.
Mr Dada also stressed that the local government would not protect anyone involved in misconduct or criminal activity.
“As a government committed to transparency, integrity, peace, and the protection of lives and property within our Local Government, we strongly condemn every form of criminality, deception, and misconduct capable of bringing the image of the government into disrepute,” he said.
He further assured residents that no public official would be shielded from investigation.
“We wish to assure the good people of Ilejemeje Local Government that no individual is above the law. The law must take its full course without interference, irrespective of status or political position,” he added.
Meanwhile, the chairman praised security agencies for their swift response and professionalism during the investigation process.
Residents were also urged to remain calm and avoid spreading false information capable of causing panic.
