Tension has gripped the Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) community after armed men abducted staff member Omoniyi Eleyinmi at his Supare-Akoko home in Ondo State. The incident occurred on Monday evening in Akoko South West Local Government Area.
According to witnesses, the Faculty of Education officer was returning from work to his residence when the assailants struck. As he alighted from a commercial motorcycle, the gunmen opened fire into the air to cause panic, then whisked him away to an undisclosed location.
Ransom Reduced After Negotiation
Initially, the abductors demanded ₦100 million. However, after appeals from the victim’s family, they slashed the amount to ₦7 million. Sources revealed the kidnappers contacted the family on Thursday to insist on receiving the reduced ransom within 24 hours.
On Wednesday, they allowed Eleyinmi’s wife to speak with him briefly over the phone, assuring her that he was alive.
In response, the AAUA Alumni Association has started raising funds to secure his release. The association’s Global Publicity Secretary, O’Seun Ogunsakin, urged members and the public to contribute swiftly.
“Distinguished Alumni, one of us, Niyi Eleyinmi, has been kidnapped. The abductors are demanding ₦7 million. We have only 24 hours to meet this demand,” Ogunsakin said in a statement. He provided a donation account and appealed for urgent support to ensure the victim’s safe return.
Ondo State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident. He disclosed that Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal has ordered tactical units to rescue Eleyinmi unharmed and arrest the perpetrators.
“The Commissioner has directed all tactical commanders to act swiftly. We are committed to rescuing the victim and bringing the suspects to justice,” Ayanlade stated, emphasizing that the police are not involved in ransom negotiations.
Growing Security Concerns in Ondo State
The abduction has reignited public concern over rising insecurity in the region. Residents and colleagues are calling for stronger security measures to protect lives and property, particularly in university communities.
