Gunmen abduct Ondo varsity official, one other; wife escapes amid gunshots

Armed men suspected to be kidnappers abducted a senior staff member of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Mr. Omoniyi Eleyinmi, on Monday evening in Ondo State.

Eleyinmi, who serves as a faculty officer in the university’s Faculty of Education, was reportedly kidnapped alongside another unidentified individual.

It was gathered that Eleyinmi was returning to his residence in Supare-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of the state after work when the armed men, who had laid an ambush, abducted him.

A source close to the family explained that the attackers had positioned themselves at Eleyinmi’s residence before his arrival and began shooting sporadically as soon as he alighted from a commercial motorcycle.

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The source said the gunmen opened fire and seized him during the attack, while his wife, who had stepped out to welcome him, narrowly escaped being caught in the crossfire.

A member of the university’s Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), who preferred not to be named, confirmed the incident and said, “Omoniyi Eleyinmi was kidnapped at his residence in Supare-Akoko shortly after returning from work. According to his wife, the gunmen had arrived before him and struck as soon as he got home.”

A family source stated that the kidnappers had yet to make contact with the family, adding that relatives are deeply worried about Eleyinmi’s safety and whereabouts.

Reacting to the incident, the university’s spokesperson, Mr. Victor Akinpelumi, said the institution is working closely with security operatives to ensure the safe return of its staff member.

“We have contacted the police, and they have assured us that they have swung into action to secure his release,” Akinpelumi stated.

Confirming the abduction, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olayinka Ayanlade, said operatives have been deployed to the area and are working to rescue the remaining victim.

According to him, “They were on a motorcycle when they were accosted by the kidnappers at Supare. One of the victims has been rescued and is currently being debriefed. We are doing everything possible to rescue the second victim.”

He added that while full details cannot be disclosed due to the sensitive nature of the operation, updates would be provided as the situation develops.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE