The Ogun State Amotekun Corps successfully uncovered and thwarted a self-kidnap scheme allegedly staged by a 41-year-old resident, Enitan Awoyemi, who reportedly faked his own abduction to avoid repaying a gambling debt of nearly ₦1 million. According to Amotekun Commander, Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (retd.), Awoyemi, from Irolu-Remo in Ikenne LGA, orchestrated the plan after facing substantial gambling losses.

The scheme unraveled when Awoyemi’s wife, Tope, reported the supposed kidnapping to the Amotekun outpost, stating that her husband had called her claiming he’d been abducted by unknown individuals demanding ₦5 million for his release. Following the report, the Amotekun Intelligence team investigated and discovered that Awoyemi had amassed a substantial debt from a lotto game.

Awoyemi, known to be a frequent gambler, had previously won ₦6 million, which he used to buy a Toyota Corolla Sport and a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle for commercial purposes. When faced with his inability to repay a ₦1 million gambling debt, he allegedly faked his own kidnapping as a means to evade repayment.

Collaborating with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Amotekun officers traced Awoyemi’s movements to Ijagba town and later to Ota, where he was apprehended at the Irolu Okada Park. During his arrest, officers noted a strong scent of insecticide, indicating a possible suicide attempt. He was promptly taken to Rufina Private Hospital in Iperu for medical treatment.

Commander Adedigba affirmed that upon recovery, Awoyemi would be handed over to the police for further investigation. He praised the collaborative effort that led to Awoyemi’s capture, urging the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

“This case highlights the crucial role of community cooperation in safeguarding public safety and security,” Adedigba stated.