Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested two more suspects linked to the kidnapping of Mrs. Folasade Odumosu, wife of retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu. The suspects, identified as 27-year-old Agbojule Smart and 30-year-old Keleke Michael, were apprehended on Friday while attempting to leave Lagos State.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. According to the statement, “The operatives of the Lagos State CP Special Squad have apprehended two suspects identified as Agbojule Smart and Keleke Michael. They were arrested in the early hours of today, January 24, 2025, while on their way out of Lagos State.”
The police recovered several items from the suspects, including two locally fabricated rifles, 11 live cartridges, and N2.25 million, which was allegedly part of the ransom demanded by the kidnappers.
A Gang of Four and the Fight Against Crime
Adejobi revealed that the suspects confessed to being part of a four-man gang responsible for the abduction. He stated, “Upon interrogation, they confessed to their crime, belonging to a gang of four, two of whom have been neutralized previously.”
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, commended the operatives for their swift action and urged them to maintain the momentum in combating crime. He praised their “gallantry in apprehending these suspects” and reiterated the police force’s commitment to reducing crime and establishing peace nationwide.
This abduction highlights the growing trend of kidnappings and other criminal activities in Nigeria. Despite the successful rescue of Mrs. Odumosu, questions linger about the overall security situation in the country.
Crime Surge in 2025: What Lies Ahead?
Mrs. Odumosu’s ordeal began on January 16, 2024, when four masked men stormed her residence in Arepo, Ogun State, and whisked her away under the cover of darkness. She was rescued less than a week later following a gun battle between the kidnappers and police operatives in a swampy area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.
While this case ended in the victim’s safe return, it adds to the long list of crimes plaguing the country. January 2025 has already seen a surge in violent crimes, ranging from ritual killings to domestic violence and kidnappings.
Can the Nigerian government effectively tackle these escalating crimes? Many are left in doubt. A nation riddled with insecurity is no way to live. While law enforcement agencies may celebrate isolated successes, the systemic issues behind these crimes demand urgent attention.
