Gunmen Kidnap NDDC Managing Director’s Special Adviser in Bayelsa

Mr. Akari Loveday, Special Adviser to the NDDC MD, was kidnapped on Friday in Bayelsa State. The kidnappers stopped the boat and fled into the bush after their engine stalled. Police have begun search operations, but confirmation of the incident remains unverified from police sources.

Mr. Akari Loveday, the Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been kidnapped. The incident occurred on Friday while he was en route to the Ayakoro community in the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, which is also the hometown of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director.

Reports indicate that the kidnappers ambushed the boat transporting Mr. Akari and his companions, forcibly taking him into their own vessel. However, their escape was thwarted when the engine of their boat failed, compelling them to paddle to the riverbank before fleeing into the surrounding bush with the victim.

In response to the kidnapping, local security forces, including police officers, have initiated a search for the abducted adviser in the area. The presence of police has increased significantly, as they are conducting stop-and-search operations in an attempt to locate both the victim and the kidnappers.

When approached for confirmation of the event, Mr. Musa Mohammed, the spokesperson for the Bayelsa State Police Command, mentioned that he was not aware of the kidnapping and was unable to provide further details at the moment.

The kidnapping of Mr. Akari Loveday, a notable figure associated with the NDDC, underscores the ongoing security challenges in the Niger Delta region. Local authorities have initiated a search operation, but the situation remains concerning due to the lack of confirmed updates from police officials. Continued attention to local security measures is crucial in mitigating such incidents.

Original Source: saharareporters.com