Rescue of Abducted Health Worker in Ondo: A Triumph of Coordinated Security Efforts

A health worker, Pastor Ayodeji Akesinro, who was abducted from his home in Owo on Thursday, has been successfully rescued following a swift operation by security forces. The incident, which occurred on the evening of August 28, 2025, had raised alarm among the local community and medical professionals.

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The Abduction

Pastor Akesinro, who works at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo, was at his residence in the Upenme community when armed gunmen stormed his home around 7:00 PM. They abducted him and took him to an unknown location, causing distress to his family and colleagues. The incident immediately drew a strong reaction from the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), which threatened to protest if Akesinro was not quickly and safely rescued.

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Swift Response and Rescue

In response to the abduction, the Ondo State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal, launched a coordinated search and rescue operation. The team, which included the Owo Area Command, divisional police officers, and the Upenme Vigilante Group, used credible intelligence to conduct a "bush-combing" search of the forests around Owo.

Their efforts paid off when they located the kidnappers. During a gunfight, the abductors abandoned Akesinro and fled. On Saturday, August 30, 2025, Akesinro was rescued unharmed. The Ondo State Police Command confirmed that no ransom was paid. Akesinro was taken to the FMC for medical attention and has since been reunited with his family.

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A Broader Look at Security

While the successful rescue is a positive outcome, it highlights the persistent security challenges in Ondo State, especially in Owo, a town still recovering from past violence. The collaboration between the police and the local vigilante group demonstrates the effectiveness of community policing. The Ondo State Police Command stated it is "not resting" in its efforts to secure the state and will continue to work with the community and other security agencies to prevent future incidents.