By Esther Onyegbula

Former Aide and Family Attacked in Ekiti

On January 2, 2026, Jide, a former personal assistant to the late Topmost Ayinde, was abducted in Ekiti State along with his wife and their twin sons by unidentified gunmen, according to a family source.

The assailants reportedly invaded the family’s residence and demanded information about Ayomide, Topmost Ayinde’s son, who is in the United Kingdom. According to Jide’s uncle, the attackers showed photographs of Ayomide and insisted on knowing his whereabouts and how they could get him.

Jide reportedly told them he did not know Ayomide’s location and had not been in contact with him for a long time.

During the attack, one of the twin boys was killed, while Jide’s wife was also shot dead by the assailants. The attackers allegedly accused Jide of withholding information.

“They appeared determined to harm anyone connected to Topmost Ayinde’s family,” Jide’s uncle said, adding that the family had previously reported threats to the police before relocating to Ekiti State.

The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing. No arrests have been recorded so far.

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Fatal Shooting in Calabar

After escaping captivity, Jide reportedly relocated to Calabar, Cross River State, where he later contacted his uncle to narrate the abduction and the killing of his wife and child.

Two days after the conversation, Jide was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Calabar. An eyewitness said a man riding a motorcycle approached him and opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene.

The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the killing and said investigations are ongoing, with no suspects apprehended.

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Earlier Killings in Osun

The recent incidents follow an earlier attack on November 21, 2024, in Ilesa, Osun State, where Topmosg Ayinde’s wife and daughter were killed at their market stall.

Police confirmed the incident at the time and stated that investigations were ongoing, but no arrests have been announced.

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Growing Public Concern

Residents across Ekiti, Osun, and Cross River states have expressed concern over the repeated violent incidents and the continued absence of arrests. Many have called on security agencies to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.

Although no official link has been established between the attacks, police authorities say investigations are ongoing.

Until his gruesome killing, He was an active member of the PDP and campaign team member for the PDP governorship candidate, in his area.

His associates said his political influence in his locality and active involvement in politics of the area made him a threat to his political rivals.