Gunmen have abducted Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro, a staff member of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, Ondo State.
Akesinro was taken from his residence at Upenme in Owo Local Government Area around 7 p.m. on Thursday.
A senior labour leader under the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), who confirmed the incident but asked not to be named, said the matter had been reported to security agencies.
In a message circulated among union members, he expressed shock over the abduction and hinted that protests may be staged if the situation is not swiftly addressed.
“As a union, we have always stood strong in advocating for the welfare and security of our members. In light of this unfortunate event, members of NUAHP may need to declare a day of protest in Owo to demand the immediate and safe release of Pastor Akesinro,” the message read.
The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, also confirmed the abduction, adding that security operatives had begun combing nearby forests in a bid to rescue the victim.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has assured that security operatives are working tirelessly with other agencies to rescue Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro unharmed and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Our men are currently inside the forest in collaboration with sister security agencies to rescue the victim. Let me assure you that we will not relent in ensuring the safety of citizens in the state,” he said.
Lawal added that the police are also engaging with local communities to strengthen community policing. “We are working closely with residents to ensure everyone plays a role. The police will not rest until the people of the state can sleep with both eyes closed,” he stressed.
The development comes amid growing concerns over the resurgence of kidnapping in Ondo State, with gunmen increasingly targeting victims in their homes.
Only two weeks ago, suspected gunmen abducted Omoniyi Eleyinmi, a staff of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), from his residence. He was later rescued after the suspects were arrested by the police.
