By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
A wave of fear and uncertainty has gripped Ode-Irele town in Ondo State following the mysterious disappearance of a two-month-old baby, reportedly left in the care of a two-year-old sibling while their mother stepped out to a nearby shop.
The unsettling incident, which occurred on Monday night at Gbeleju Quarters around 9:00 p.m., has sparked confusion and protests among residents, with many suspecting foul play in the sudden vanishing of the infant.
According to eyewitnesses, the mother had only briefly left her two children inside the house, but on her return, the baby was gone and the toddler could not give any explanation. Her frantic cries for help soon drew neighbours to the scene, igniting fear and suspicion across the community.
In response to the growing tension, the Ondo State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation to determine what happened. Police Public Relations Officer, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the development and urged the public to remain calm while security agents unravel the mystery.
“We can confirm a case of a missing two-month-old baby in Ode-Irele. Our officers have commenced a thorough investigation to get to the root of the matter,” Ayanlade said.
He also warned against spreading false information, particularly rumours circulating that the baby’s father had confessed to selling the child.
“There is no evidence to support such claims at this stage. The investigation is ongoing, and we ask the public to cooperate with the authorities and avoid speculation,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, attempts by journalists to speak with the baby’s parents were unsuccessful. Their home was found locked, further deepening public anxiety.
The incident has reignited discussions on child safety and the responsibilities of caregivers in rural communities. Some residents have called on the state government and community leaders to improve security measures and raise awareness about the dangers of leaving infants unattended.
“This is heartbreaking. We need to be more vigilant and support families with young children. A baby doesn’t just vanish into thin air,” said one resident, who pleaded not to be named.
Police have promised to provide updates as the investigation progresses, while locals continue to hope for the safe return of the missing child.