A chilling case of abduction has unsettled the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, following the kidnapping of one of its staff, Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro, in Ondo State.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the healthcare worker was seized from his home in Upenme, Owo Local Government Area, at about 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, by armed men who stormed the neighbourhood.
A senior official of the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), who pleaded not to be named, confirmed the development, noting that security operatives had been alerted.
In a message shared among union members, the labour leader condemned the abduction in strong terms and hinted that industrial action could be considered if urgent steps are not taken to ensure Akesinro’s release.
“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.
Acknowledging the abduction, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, assured the public that officers had already launched a manhunt. He disclosed that tactical teams were combing nearby forests in a bid to track down the kidnappers and secure the victim’s freedom.
“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.
