The Ogun State Security Network, widely known as Amotekun, has successfully foiled a self-kidnap plot orchestrated by a 41-year-old man, Enitan Awoyemi, from Irolu-Remo in Ikenne Local Government Area. The suspect staged his own abduction in a desperate attempt to avoid repaying a significant gambling debt of N1 million.

On November 10, Awoyemi’s wife, Mrs. Tope Awoyemi, informed the Amotekun Irolu outpost about her husband’s alleged kidnapping. According to her report, Awoyemi had called her, claiming he was abducted by unknown individuals demanding a ransom of N5 million for his release. However, Amotekun’s intelligence team quickly began investigating the situation, which led to the discovery of the truth.

The investigation revealed that Awoyemi had been involved in heavy gambling, particularly in a lotto game, and had accumulated a staggering N1 million in debt. Prior to this, he had won N6 million from the same game, using part of the money to purchase a Toyota Corolla Sport car and a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle for commercial use. Facing financial trouble and unable to settle his debts, Awoyemi devised the self-kidnap scheme as a way out.

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With the help of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and other local partners, Amotekun officers tracked Awoyemi to Ijagba town and later to Ota in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area. He was eventually apprehended on Wednesday morning during a routine patrol at the Irolu Okada Park. Upon arrest, officers noticed a strong smell of insecticide on Awoyemi, suggesting a possible suicide attempt. He was immediately taken to Rufina Private Hospital in Iperu for medical treatment.

Brigadier General Alade Adedigba, the Amotekun Commander, confirmed that once Awoyemi recovers, he will be handed over to the police for further legal action. Adedigba praised the successful collaboration between Amotekun, the local Vigilante Group, and other community members in ensuring the suspect’s capture.