Panic has spread through Monatan community in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State following the abduction of a 60-year-old building materials trader by suspected armed men.

The incident occurred on Saturday night along the Jinarere axis of Alakia Road in Ibadan when the victim was intercepted by four masked gunmen while returning home at about 8:47 pm.

The attackers reportedly operated in an unregistered ash-coloured Toyota Corolla before forcefully whisking the victim away to an unknown destination.

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Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the state police command, Olayinka Ayanlade, said the matter was reported on May 2, 2026, and that security operatives had already begun rescue efforts.

He stated: “I can confirm that there was a case of abduction reported on May 2, 2026, at about 2047hrs from the Monatan area of Ibadan. Preliminary information reveals that the victim, a 60-year-old male building materials trader, was accosted while returning home along the Jinarere axis of Alakia Road by four masked armed men, who forcefully whisked him away in an unregistered ash-coloured Toyota Corolla vehicle. Upon receipt of the report, police operatives swiftly visited the scene and activated necessary operational measures aimed at rescuing the victim and apprehending the perpetrators.”

Residents of the area have expressed fear over rising insecurity, urging authorities to intensify surveillance and prevent further attacks.

Security agencies assured that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victim and arrest those responsible.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the rising wave of attacks on its citizens in South Africa, summoning the country’s top diplomat in Abuja over what it described as persistent xenophobic violence.

The move follows recent incidents in which Nigerians were reportedly targeted, including the killing of one citizen and injuries sustained by others in separate attacks by unidentified gunmen.

The government said the pattern of violence has become alarming and unacceptable.

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Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed that South Africa’s acting high commissioner has been invited for urgent discussions.

According to him, the meeting will address “documented cases of maltreatment of Nigerian citizens and attacks on their businesses.”

Nigeria’s action comes amid growing continental concern over the safety of foreign nationals in South Africa, where repeated outbreaks of xenophobic violence have been recorded over the years.

Similarly, Ghana recently summoned South Africa’s envoy in Accra following reports of harassment and intimidation of its citizens.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed that a Ghanaian resident was confronted and asked to leave South Africa in a recent incident, heightening fears among migrants.

South Africa remains one of Africa’s top destinations for migrants due to its relatively advanced economy.

However, high unemployment and economic challenges have often fueled resentment against foreigners, leading to periodic violence.

Reacting to the development, South Africa’s acting police minister, Firoz Cachalia, condemned the attacks, stating that such actions are unlawful and contrary to the country’s constitutional values.

He assured that security agencies have been directed to act decisively against perpetrators, emphasizing that xenophobia, violence, and intimidation will not be tolerated.

The Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, warning that it will continue to engage diplomatically until the safety and rights of Nigerians in South Africa are fully guaranteed.

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said that Nigeria’s current minimum wage can no longer sustain a decent standard of living, as worsening economic realities continue to weigh heavily on citizens.

Obi made this known in a statement released on Friday to commemorate International Workers’ Day, where he highlighted the growing hardship faced by Nigerian workers amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.

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According to him, the value of wages has been significantly eroded by soaring food prices, transportation costs, and general economic instability, leaving many workers struggling to survive despite being employed.

He stressed that it is unfair that citizens who contribute daily to the nation’s development are unable to meet their basic needs, noting that the dignity of labour is gradually being undermined.

“The minimum wage today cannot guarantee even the most modest standard of living,” Obi said, warning that the situation could further worsen if urgent steps are not taken.

The former Anambra State governor called for immediate wage adjustments and comprehensive economic reforms aimed at improving the welfare of workers and stabilising the economy.

Obi also emphasised the importance of investing in human capital, stating that no country can achieve meaningful growth without a productive and well-supported workforce.

He urged Nigerian workers to actively participate in the democratic process by supporting credible and competent leadership that prioritises the well-being of citizens.

Obi concluded by calling for a fairer society built on justice, equity, and respect for labour, adding that empowering workers remains key to national prosperity.