A staff member of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro, has been abducted by gunmen in Ondo State.

Akesiro was reportedly whisked away from his residence at Upenme, in Owo Local Government Area, around 7 p.m. on Thursday.

Confirming the incident, a senior labour leader under the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), who does not want his name mentioned, said that the matter had already been reported to the security agencies.

In a message circulated among members of the union, he expressed shock over the abduction and hinted at possible protests if the situation was not swiftly addressed.

“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 message read.

Confirming the kidnap case, the State Police Commissioner, Adebowale Lawal, said security operatives are on top of the situation and have begun combing the forest to rescue the victim.

Lawal explained that the police in a joint collaborative effort with other sister security agencies would ensure Akesinro is rescued unhurt while perpetrators of the dastardly act are brought to book.

“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. It resting at all to ensure the people of the state sleep with their two eyes closed,” he said.

The Nation report that the resurgence of kidnap activities in the state has become a source of concerns to residents, particularly as abductors now laid ambushed at private residence to pick their victims.

A fortnight ago, a staff of the Adekunle Ajain University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Omoniyi Eleyinmi, was abducted at his residential home by suspected gunmen, who were later apprehended by the police.

The gang of three suspects were apprehended while allegedly sharing ransom collected from the families of Eleyinmi for his release. (The Nation)