Police say they have launched combing the forests after unidentified gunmen abducted a staffer at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, Ondo State, identified as Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, also confirmed the case, assuring that security operatives were already on the trail of the abductors.
He said: “Our men are currently inside the bush in collaboration with other sister security agencies to rescue the victim. Let me assure you that we are not resting to ensure the citizens of the state are well secured.
“We are collaborating with other security agencies in the state, and we are also engaging in the community to ensure everyone is involved in community policing. So, the police is not resting at all to ensure the people of the state sleep with their two eyes closed.”
Akesinro was reportedly taken away on Thursday evening when the gunmen invaded his residence at Upenme, in the Owo Local Government Area, at approximately 7pm.
In a message circulated among members, the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) expressed shock over the abduction and warned that members might embark on protests if urgent steps were not taken.
The message read: “I am writing to bring to your attention the distressing news of the kidnapping of our colleague and member, Pastor Akesinro, in his house at Upenme, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State at about 7 p.m. yesterday, 28th of August, 2025.
“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 latest abduction has further heightened concerns over kidnapping in the state.
Only two weeks ago, suspected gunmen abducted a staff member of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Omoniyi Eleyinmi, from his home.
