Philip Aivoji, the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos, has been abducted, leaving the nation in shock and the political landscape in disarray. Aivoji, a prominent figure within the party, was seized on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway while returning from a crucial stakeholders meeting in Oyo state convened by Governors Seyi Makinde and Ademola Adeleke.
The news of Aivoji's abduction was confirmed by the State PDP Publicity Secretary, Hon. Hakeem Amode, who, in a statement released on Friday, expressed deep concern over the prevailing issue of kidnapping in the country.
Amode's statement appealed urgently to security agencies and government authorities at all levels to intervene swiftly and secure the release of the party chairman. He lamented the government's perceived inability to effectively address the menace of kidnapping, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
"It is disheartening that kidnapping has become a prevalent issue in our country, and the government’s inability to address this menace is deeply concerning," said Amode. He underscored the urgency of the situation, highlighting the violent nature of Aivoji's abduction and the current lack of information regarding his whereabouts or any communication from the abductors.
The statement called upon the governments of Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos States, as well as security agencies, to expedite efforts and ensure Aivoji's safe return to his family and well-wishers. Amode expressed the firm belief that, with increased efforts from security agencies, Aivoji could be rescued from the clutches of these criminals.
"We implore the governments of Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos States, alongside security agencies, to expedite efforts and secure his safe return to his family and well-wishers," Amode urged. "We firmly believe that, with increased efforts from security agencies, Aivoji can be rescued from these criminals, and we call on the public to support initiatives aimed at ending this threat to innocent lives."
As the nation awaits updates on the unfolding situation, the abduction of Philip Aivoji has cast a grim shadow on the security challenges faced on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and ignited concerns about the broader implications for public safety. The urgency for decisive actions from the government and stakeholders to address the pervasive issue of kidnapping has never been more apparent.