Kidnapping of NDDC Official in Bayelsa Raises Security Concerns
Mr. Akari Loveday, Special Adviser to the NDDC MD, was kidnapped on Friday while traveling by boat in Bayelsa State. The kidnappers intercepted his boat but failed in their escape due to an engine malfunction, leading to a search by police. The Bayelsa State Police Command had no immediate confirmation of the incident.
On Friday, Mr. Akari Loveday, the Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was kidnapped in Bayelsa State. This incident occurred while he was traveling along the river towards Ayakoro community, which is the hometown of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director.
Reports indicate that the kidnappers intercepted the boat transporting Akari and others. They forcibly transferred him to their own boat in an attempt to flee, but their boat’s engine malfunctioned, hindering their escape. Subsequently, the kidnappers paddled to the riverbank and disappeared into nearby bushland with Akari.
Local sources reported heightened security presence in the Ogbia Local Government Area, with police conducting extensive searches. The source observed, “The SA Domestic to the NDDC MD has been kidnapped… They took him out of the boat, but as they tried to get away, their engine stopped suddenly.”
Despite the unfolding situation, Bayelsa State Police Command spokesman, Mr. Musa Mohammed, did not confirm the incident, stating, “I’m not aware of it.”
The kidnapping of Akari Loveday highlights ongoing security challenges in the Niger Delta region. While local law enforcement has initiated a search, the situation raises concerns about safety and security in the area, particularly regarding government officials. The failure of the kidnappers’ escape attempt underscores the unpredictability of such criminal acts.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
