Fresh controversy has erupted in Ekiti State following allegations that the Vice Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Hon. Mrs. Grace Ogunleye, allegedly orchestrated her own kidnapping after initially reported to have been abducted by gunmen along the Ipere-Iludun Road on May 20, 2026.
The incident, which initially triggered fear and security concerns within the local government area, has now taken a dramatic turn following an official statement from the Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, Hon. Pius Alaba Dada.
Mrs. Ogunleye was earlier reported kidnapped shortly after leaving the council secretariat in Iye Ekiti. Initial reports claimed that unidentified gunmen intercepted her vehicle and whisked her away, raising fresh concerns over insecurity within the area.
She was later rescued unharmed.
However, according to the official statement issued by the Executive Chairman of Ilejemeje Local Government, ongoing investigations by security authorities allegedly revealed that the incident was a “self-kidnapping arrangement.”
“This development is shocking, disturbing, and entirely unacceptable,” the chairman stated.
“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.”
The chairman further stated that no individual is above the law, assuring residents that due process would be allowed to take its full course without interference regardless of status or political office.
Hon. Dada also commended security agencies for what he described as professionalism and swift investigation into the matter while urging members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating tension within the community.
The development has generated widespread reactions across Ekiti political circles and social media, especially considering previous kidnapping incidents recorded within the local government area.
Political observers say the controversy may further intensify conversations around public trust, insecurity, and accountability among political office holders in Nigeria.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to officially conclude investigations into the matter.