Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro, a staff member of the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ondo State.
LEADERSHIP gathered that the victim was whisked away from his residence at Upenme in Owo local government area of the state around 7pm on Thursday.
Confirming the incident, the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Ondo State Branch, described the incident as a “deep shock and grave concern.”
In a statement issued by its Chairman, MLS Akinlolu Ayodeji and its Secretary, MLS Adeola-Oyekan Joshua, Ondo State AMLSN described the abduction as most regrettable and wholly condemnable, “and we strongly denounce this criminal act in its entirety.”
“We wish to commend the efforts of the Ondo State Government in the past, particularly in safeguarding the lives and properties of the good people of our dear state during similar and hapless incidents.
“We therefore use this medium to call on the State Government under the able leadership of His Excellency to once again activate and deploy all necessary machineries, security agencies, and instruments at its disposal to ensure the unconditional and timely release of our abducted colleague,” the statement said.
AMLSN further designated kidnapping as a grievous affront to human dignity, peace, and security, noting “It not only causes untold trauma to the victim and family but also threatens the collective sense of safety of our people.”
The Union urged its members and the public to remain calm while calling on the security agencies to immediately and decisively swing into action to rescue Pastor Akesinro and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“As an Association, we reaffirm our commitment to work closely with all relevant government institutions in ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens of Ondo State.
“We stand in solidarity with the family of Pastor Akesinro during this difficult time, and we pray earnestly for his speedy and safe return,” the Union said.
Aside from calling for the safe rescue of the victim, the Union also demanded tighter security in Owo and its environs, as well as collaboration with security operatives to apprehend those behind the abduction.
Confirming the incident, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal said security operatives were on top of the situation and have begun combing the forest to rescue the victim.
Lawal assured that the police, in collaboration with other sister security agencies would ensure Akesinro’s safe rescue.
“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,” the CP said.
