Fresh concerns over targeted abductions have emerged in parts of Osun State following the kidnapping of a Fulani herdsman, Yahaya Sulaiman, along the Iloko-Ijebu Jesa Road in Oriade Local Government Area.

The Osun State Police Command confirmed the incident on Wednesday, saying security operatives had begun investigations into the attack, which reportedly happened around 9 p.m. on Monday in Ijebu-Jesa.

Police spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said preliminary findings suggested the abductors deliberately went after the victim. According to him, the gunmen reportedly asked residents for Sulaiman’s whereabouts before carrying out the operation, indicating prior knowledge of their target.

Security sources in the community also described the incident as a carefully planned attack. One source, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the abducted man was well known among Fulani cattle rearers in the area and appeared to have been singled out by the assailants before being taken to an unknown location.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing, although the victim’s family had yet to formally report the matter to the anti-kidnapping unit as of Wednesday. Police officials appealed to residents to volunteer useful information that could assist ongoing rescue efforts and help track those responsible.

The incident has again drawn attention to growing fears over insecurity on rural roads and farming communities across parts of the country, where residents and business owners increasingly face threats from kidnappers seeking ransom payments. Local sources claimed the abductors later contacted the family and demanded N70 million for the victim’s release.