Former Senate leader and 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo, Teslim Folarin, on Thursday, expressed concern over the abduction of Adewale Oriade, a member of the party in Ibadan.

Mr Folarin, in a Facebook post, described Mr Oriade’s abduction as an “unacceptable and a painful reminder of the growing insecurity confronting our dear nation”.

“I am deeply troubled by the kidnapping of Hon. Wale Oriade. I strongly call on all security agencies to act decisively and deploy every necessary resource to ensure his immediate and safe rescue,” Mr Folarin stated.

Calling for calm, the politician appealed to APC members in the state to exercise patience as security operatives intensify rescue efforts.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult period. I appeal for calm among our party members and residents as security operatives intensify efforts.

“Oyo State must not be surrendered to criminals. We must strengthen our security architecture, improve intelligence sharing, and protect every citizen. May Almighty Allah safeguard Hon. Oriade and return him home safely,” he explained.

Also confirming the incident, a relative, Adebayo Hammed, told Peoples Gazette that Mr Oriade was kidnapped on Wednesday at around 7:00 p.m., along Akala Express road, in Ibadan.

He said, “All police departments, including the DSS and the anti-kidnapping unit, are aware.”

The police did not immediately confirm the kidnap.

Source: Amb Saheed Adewale Oriade