BY Dayo Johnson
Akure- Lecturers  of Federal University of Technology Akure FUTA, Ondo State, have started contributing money to meet the N15 million ransom demanded by the kidnappers of Dr. Tunji Akinlabi in a bid to free him,  72 hours after he was kidnapped.

There were insinuations that the lecturer may have been kidnapped by cult members in the University.

But aides to the Vice- Chancellor of the University, Professor Adebisi Balogun, who denied any involvement by  cult members said: “The University does not habour cult members or such miscreants.

Dr Akinlabi 45, a lecturer in the Department of Meteorology, was kidnapped by some youths at his residence located at Stateline-Aule road,  Saturday.

About 12 hours after, the kidnappers called his wife and demanded a ransom of N15 million, warning her agaist involving the Police.

Speaking with Vanguard, one of the lecturers said that they are trying to raise the money.

He said that the idea of the contribution came when it was obvious that the family of Akinlabi would not be able to raise the N15 million, stressing that

the lecturers and family members may also not be able  to meet ransom but would be able to raise some amount before the end of the week.

It is not clear if the University will augment whatever money raised.

Spokesperson for the State Police Command,  Adeniran Aremu, said the police were on top of the situation.

He said: “The police authorities have set up a high powered investigation team to unravel the mystery behind the kidnap.”

Reacting, the Deputy Registrar, Information and Protocol, Omololu Adegbenro said:  “It is very unfortunate that innocent people are being kidnapped all in the name of money. Government and the law enforcement agents should please come to the aid of Dr. Akinlabi and ensure that he is rescued unharmed.

The management of FUTA is sad about this ugly development and we urge all stakeholders to help  address the issue of insecurity in the country.