PICTORIAL: Soun Of Ogbomosoland Visits Communities Affected By Abductions, Calls For Unity

The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, has paid a visit to the communities of Esiele, Yawota, and Ahoro-Dada in Ori-ire local government area of Oyo State, following recent security breaches and abductions of schoolchildren and teachers that have unsettled the areas.

The monarch disclosed this in a statement shared on his official Facebook page on Saturday, stating that his visit was aimed at assessing the situation first-hand, identifying with affected residents, and encouraging communities grappling with the aftermath of the attacks.

According to Oba Ghandi, the security challenges affecting Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada, and neighbouring communities have caused immense pain and uncertainty among residents.

“The recent attacks and security breaches affecting Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada, and neighbouring communities have brought pain, fear, and uncertainty to many families. The abduction of students, teachers, and residents has deeply saddened us all. These incidents are not merely community tragedies; they are wounds felt across the entirety of Ogbomosoland,” the monarch stated.

The traditional ruler was accompanied on the visit by the Onisapa of Isapa Kingdom, Oba Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide; the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji; the Alapa of Okin-Apa, Oba (Prof.) Akinola John Akintola; members of the Soun-in-Council, including the Aare Ago of Ogbomosoland, High Chief Samuel Otolorin, and the Iyalode of Ogbomosoland, High Chief (Mrs.) Ogundare Rebecca.

Addressing families of abducted victims and residents of the affected communities, Ghandi assured them that they were not alone in their ordeal.

“To the affected families and residents, I want you to know that you are not alone. The entire Ogbomosoland stands with you during this difficult period. We share in your grief, your concerns, and your hopes,” he said.

He added that the people of Ogbomosoland were praying for the safe return of those still in captivity and comfort for families impacted by the incidents.

The monarch also called on residents, community leaders, and youths to support ongoing security efforts by remaining vigilant and providing credible information to security agencies.

“I wish to appeal to our youths, community leaders, and residents to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that can aid ongoing efforts to secure our communities. Security is a collective responsibility, and together, we must play our part in protecting our people and preserving peace,” he said.

Oba Olaoye further urged relevant authorities and security institutions to intensify efforts toward securing affected communities, protecting schools, and restoring lasting peace in the area.

“We have received assurances that rescue operations and additional security measures are ongoing, and we remain hopeful that these efforts will yield positive and timely results,” he noted.

The monarch expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde for their support toward ensuring the safe return of abducted persons and improving security in the affected communities.

He also commended the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Amotekun Corps, hunters, local vigilante groups, and other security personnel for their efforts in safeguarding lives and property.

Calling for unity among residents, Oba Ghandi said Ogbomosoland must not allow fear to undermine its collective resolve.

“This is a time for unity, resilience, and unwavering faith. We must not allow fear to divide us, discourage us, or weaken our collective resolve. Ogbomosoland has always been a people of strength, courage, and solidarity, and together, we shall overcome these challenges and emerge stronger,” he stated.

He concluded with prayers for the affected families, the safety of children, and lasting peace across Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada, and other communities in Ogbomosoland. More Photos Below: