Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has directed security agencies to launch a massive manhunt for the kidnappers who abducted travelers near Ilisan City Gate along the Sagamu-Ore expressway on Sunday night.

Reports indicate that at least 20 travelers were kidnapped around the Area Command and Ilisan City Gate at about 9 p.m.

The gunmen ambushed the travelers on the busy expressway. Security sources suggest it might have been an insider job, as all the victims were foreign nationals who had arrived in the country the same day and were possibly trailed to the kidnapping location.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 2, Governor Abiodun assured that Ogun State will not become a haven for kidnappers and promised that the culprits would be apprehended and punished. “Following Sunday’s kidnapping incident that occurred in Ilishan, we want to reassure all residents that decisive action is being taken to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the victims,” he said.

The governor announced that all security agencies, including the police, army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun, So-Safe Corps, and local hunters, are on the trail of the kidnappers, using various security gadgets, including drones.

“The security forces have launched a comprehensive manhunt and are working tirelessly to track down the kidnappers. Additional security measures and patrols have also been deployed to the affected area and across the state to prevent any further incidents,” he added.

Governor Abiodun reassured the people of their safety. “We understand the concerns and anxiety this incident has caused, but we want to emphasize that Ogun State remains a safe place to live, work, and visit. The government is committed to maintaining law and order and will not relent in its efforts to protect the lives and property of all citizens,” he said.