The Cross River State Command has announced that they are making extensive efforts to rescue Dr. Roland Ipuole, a lecturer from the University of Calabar (UNICAL) who was kidnapped. Dr. Ipuole, from the Faculty of Law, was abducted by gunmen on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Calabar, the state capital.

He, along with two other individuals, was taken during an executive meeting of the Om’tuche Ayi’ala welfare initiative at State Housing near Ekong. According to a source, the kidnappers ambushed them, seizing their phones, ATM cards with PINs, and other valuables.

Some of the hostages, including Mr. Dominic Ogri, have since been released. An eyewitness described the situation as harrowing, noting that they were held for over 30 minutes without any intervention from security agencies. The witness expressed frustration, mentioning that upon returning, they saw security personnel extorting money from drivers and other road users, lamenting the state of the country.

SP Irene Ugbo, the spokesperson for the command, confirmed the abduction on Thursday, May 23. She stated that all necessary efforts are being made to secure Dr. Ipuole's release. "Yes, we are aware of it, and efforts are underway to rescue him. Our officers are actively working on it. It was a tragic incident at State Housing. We are also collaborating with the DSS and hope for his safe release soon," the PPRO stated.