A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Wale Oriade, has been abducted by armed men in Ibadan, the state capital.

The incident occurred around 7:06 p.m. on Wednesday at Oriade’s office located within the PJ Square Shopping Complex, beside the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited station at Elewure, along Iyana Ajanla, Akala Expressway, New Garage, Ibadan.

According to eyewitnesses, the assailants arrived in a blue Micra vehicle with two occupants, a driver and an armed man, who forcefully seized Oriade and whisked him away in the same vehicle.

The eyewitnesses described the operation as “swift and precise,” raising serious concerns within the community.

As of press time, no ransom demand had been made, and Oriade’s whereabouts remain unknown.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the APC in Oyo State confirmed the abduction and called for urgent intervention from the Nigeria Police Force. The statement, jointly signed by the APC Oyo South Senatorial Chairman, Mojeed Olaoya, and the State Youth Leader, John Aremu, urged security agencies to launch a coordinated, intelligence-driven rescue operation.

“A timely rescue will not only bring relief to Oriade’s family but also reassure the people of the state that the police command remains proactive and committed to safeguarding lives and property,” the statement read.

The party also commended the police for their ongoing efforts in maintaining law and order while calling for heightened vigilance.

Former Senate Leader and APC chieftain, Teslim Folarin, also condemned the abduction, describing it as “shocking and unacceptable.”

He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure Oriade’s immediate and safe release.

“This is a deeply troubling development. I urge our security operatives to deploy all necessary intelligence and resources to secure his prompt release. My prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” Folarin said.

He further emphasized the need for strengthened security collaboration across the state to curb the rising cases of kidnapping and urged residents to remain calm while providing credible information that could assist rescue efforts.