Gunmen have kidnapped Loveday Akari, a senior special assistant to the managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the abduction took place on Friday. Sources said the assailants escaped in a boat, which was later found abandoned not far from the crime scene.
In response, security forces launched a manhunt, deploying electronic surveillance and setting up roadblocks to track the kidnappers’ movements. A combined security team, including the Nigerian Navy’s tactical and marine units, has been mobilized to rescue Akari and apprehend those responsible.
Authorities have intensified search-and-rescue operations in Onuebum and Ayakoro, combing the area for any leads on Akari’s whereabouts.
Efforts remain ongoing to ensure his safe return and bring the perpetrators to justice.
This latest abduction follows the March 4 kidnapping of a Catholic priest, Philip Ekeli, and a seminarian, Peter Andrew, in Edo State. Security forces, including the Nigerian Army, police, and vigilantes, are still working to secure their release.
