Police Arrest Two Suspects in Connection with Killing of Aiyedatiwa’s Campaign Director

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two individuals in connection with the kidnapping and murder of Mr. Alaba Abe, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akoko-South Local Government Area. Abe, who served as the coordinator for the Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organization in Akoko South-West, was allegedly kidnapped and killed in April 2024 at his home in Supare Akoko during preparations for the APC governorship primary. Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Friday. The arrests were made by the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the police, and the suspects have been identified as Mohammed Sheu and Abubakar Umar. Odunlami explained that on November 14, 2024, the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit intercepted a Hiace bus at Ikare Junction, where Sheu, 21, was singled out for questioning after his behavior raised suspicion. During interrogation, a voice message on Sheu’s phone revealed a conversation with an accomplice who confirmed Sheu’s involvement in previous crimes, including kidnapping for ransom. Further investigation led to Sheu’s confession, detailing his involvement in multiple kidnappings and robberies across Kogi, Niger, Akoko, Ifon, Ipele, and Owo. Sheu also admitted to participating in the kidnapping that led to Abe’s death. A second suspect, Abubakar Umar, 24, was later arrested and also confessed to participating in similar crimes. The suspects claimed responsibility for the kidnapping and murder of Alaba Abe in Supare Akoko and another kidnapping incident in Owo in September 2024. The police have stated that efforts to apprehend other members of the criminal group are ongoing.