The commissioner for women affairs in Cross River, Gertrude Njar, has been kidnapped by gunmen in Calabar.

Ms Njar was kidnapped on Wednesday.A witness, Samuel Okon, revealed she was forcibly taken out of her official car by masked men.

According to Mr Okon, the commissioner was whisked away in another car.Kalita Aruku, special adviser information to Governor Ben Ayade, confirmed her kidnap in a telephone interview.

“Yes, security sources have informed us that the commissioner for women affairs has been kidnapped.

As we speak, security operatives have launched a manhunt for the kidnappers with a view to arrest them and rescue the victim unharmed,” he said.