Gunmen have abducted a staff member of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, Ondo State, stirring fear and anger in the medical community and the wider public. The victim, identified as Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro, was forcefully taken from his home in Upenme, Owo Local Government Area (LGA) at about 7:00 pm on Thursday.
The armed men stormed Pastor Akesinro’s residence in the evening, swiftly whisking him away to an unknown location, leaving his family and colleagues in shock. The incident has thrown the community into unrest as efforts to locate and rescue the health worker continue.
A senior official from the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) confirmed the abduction and disclosed that the case has been reported to security agencies. The union said investigations have already begun as security forces are actively pursuing the kidnappers.
The union expressed deep concern about the incident, highlighting the dangers faced by health workers who serve on the frontlines of Nigeria’s healthcare system. In a statement circulated to members, NUAHP hinted at plans to declare a day of protest in Owo if the victim is not rescued quickly.
“As a union, we have always stood strong in advocating for the welfare and security of our members,” the statement read. “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.”
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, confirmed the kidnapping and assured the public that the police have launched a manhunt to track down the abductors. He said the police are working closely with local hunters to comb the forests and bushes in the area where the suspects are believed to have fled.
“The Area Commander, the DPO, and local hunters within that vicinity combed the bush throughout the night,” Lawal said. “I want to appreciate the local hunters for their support to the Nigeria Police in their bid to rescue the victim.”
He added, “I can assure you, all the kidnappers will be arrested. But we want to go beyond that. We want to be proactive and not reactive. I can assure you, we are going to rescue the man and reunite him with his family.”
The abduction of Pastor Akesinro is not an isolated incident but part of a disturbing pattern of kidnappings and insecurity in Ondo State and the wider South-West region of Nigeria.
In recent years, health workers and professionals in various sectors have increasingly become targets of criminals. Kidnappers often exploit poor security infrastructure and understaffed police forces to carry out attacks, demanding ransom and creating fear.
Ondo State, like many other Nigerian states, has witnessed a rise in insecurity fueled by organized criminal gangs, often operating in rural and semi-rural communities where police presence is limited.
The kidnapping of a health worker, who is responsible for saving lives and providing essential medical care, has sparked widespread condemnation from medical professionals, human rights groups, and civil society organizations.
Health workers are critical to Nigeria’s public health system. Their safety is paramount, especially as the country continues to face public health challenges such as infectious diseases and maternal health issues.
Pastor Akesinro’s abduction has heightened anxiety among health workers in Ondo State, many of whom now fear for their safety while performing their duties.
NUAHP and other medical unions have long called for improved security measures at hospitals and within communities to protect their members. This incident has added urgency to their demands.
Families of kidnapped victims often suffer psychological trauma and financial hardship, especially when ransom demands are involved.
As the police and local hunters continue the search for Pastor Akesinro, the Ondo State government faces pressure to provide answers and ensure swift justice.
