Suspected gunmen have killed a woman and her daughter at a poultry farm in Igushi community near Akure, the capital of Ondo State, in a violent attack that has heightened security concerns in the area.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday, also saw three workers abducted by the assailants, according to community sources.
Residents said the attackers gained access to the farm by scaling the fence before attempting to abduct workers. In the process, the gunmen reportedly shot and killed the poultry owner and her daughter.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers arrived in a group and carried out the operation swiftly.
“The gunmen came through the fence. They were about five and took three people away. Later, we found the woman who owns the poultry and her daughter dead,” the source said.
He added that security agencies were immediately contacted following the attack.
“We quickly called the police and the Amotekun corps, who mobilised their men to the scene. They later rescued the victims,” he said.
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Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, condemned the killings and assured residents that efforts were underway to apprehend those responsible.
“The Command strongly condemns the violent incident at Igushin via Ala, Akure, which led to the tragic loss of two innocent lives. While two victims were successfully rescued through a swift and coordinated operation, we express deep sorrow over the unfortunate deaths recorded,” the statement read.
Jimoh noted that security measures had been reinforced in the area to safeguard lives and property, adding that a manhunt had been launched for the perpetrators.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.
The attack adds to a growing wave of insecurity in parts of Ondo State, particularly around Akure and neighbouring communities, where repeated incidents of abduction and violence have sparked renewed calls for increased security presence in rural areas.