Abeokuta, Ogun State – April 2026
Concern continues to grow in Remo North Local Government Area of Ogun State following the reported disappearance of a community vigilante leader, Mr. Jaiyesimi Babajide Emmanuel, who allegedly became a target after assisting security agencies in exposing a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating within the region.
According to community sources, Mr. Jaiyesimi was actively involved in local security and vigilante operations aimed at combating the increasing cases of kidnapping, violent attacks, and killings affecting several communities in Ogun State. Residents described him as a prominent figure in community safety efforts and someone known for collaborating with law enforcement authorities.
Reports indicate that in December 2025, Mr. Jaiyesimi allegedly provided intelligence and operational information that led to the arrest of eight suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate operating within Remo North and neighboring areas.
However, controversy reportedly followed the arrests after two of the suspects were allegedly released under unclear circumstances. Community members claimed that shortly after the release, threats and attacks against Mr. Jaiyesimi intensified.
Sources alleged that he began receiving repeated death threats and was subjected to surveillance and intimidation by unidentified individuals believed to be linked to the criminal network. There were also reports of attacks on his residence and multiple attempts on his life.
Residents further stated that despite complaints made to security agencies, no adequate protection was provided to him. Concerns were also raised over alleged compromise and corruption within certain local structures.
A close associate, who requested anonymity for security reasons, disclosed that Mr. Jaiyesimi fled Ogun State for Lagos in early 2026 after surviving several attacks. Despite relocating, it was alleged that the threats continued and that unknown individuals persistently attempted to track his movements.
The most recent reported incident allegedly occurred on March 26, 2026, when unidentified armed men reportedly ambushed him while he was in hiding. Following the incident, he reportedly went into hiding again and has not been seen publicly since then.
Family members and associates say all efforts to establish contact with him have so far proved unsuccessful. His disappearance has generated concern among residents and local vigilante groups, many of whom fear that he may have been targeted because of his role in exposing criminal activities in the area.
As at the time of this publication, the whereabouts of Mr. Jaiyesimi Babajide Emmanuel remain unknown.
Security authorities in Ogun State have yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter, while investigations into the allegations and circumstances surrounding his disappearance are reportedly ongoing
