The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Delta State University, Abraka, Chapter, on Sunday urged the state government to intensify efforts to secure the release of its member, Dr Oyerhovwo Tonukari.

Prof. Abel Diakparomre and Dr Emmanuel Ufuophu-Biri, Chairman and Secretary of the union, made the appeal in a joint statement.

Tonukari was allegedly abducted by unidentified gunmen on Oct. 13 on his way from Sapele to Abraka both in Delta.

His whereabouts remain unknown.

The ASUU urged the kidnappers to release Tonukari unconditionally and unharmed.

The two dons expressed worry and described as unholy and pathetic, kidnapping of lecturers `who are committed to the growth and development of the society`.

“Dr Tonukari, an associate professor of Microbiology went missing on his way from Sapale to Abraka on Oct. 13. His car was found abandoned in the neighbourhood of Eku in Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.

“Since the kidnap of Dr Tonukari, no group has claimed responsibility neither has any group nor individual made contact with the family.

“Also, no demand for ransom has been made. Tonukari has thus remained incommunicado with his whereabouts unknown.

“We have over endured the incessant kidnap of our lecturers and subsequent payment of ransom,’’ it said.