Juliet Oladele, Reporting
OGBOMOSO — The Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, has paid an urgent visit to three communities following a string of security breaches that have left families in fear and uncertainty.
Immediately upon his return to Ogbomoso on Saturday, the monarch made straight for Esiele, Yawota and Ahoro-Dada – all of which have suffered recent attacks, including the abduction of students, teachers and residents.
He was accompanied by three royal fathers: Oba Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide (Onisapa of Isapa Kingdom), Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji (Alajaawa of Ajaawa), and Oba Professor Akinola John Akintola (Alapa of Okin-Apa). Members of the Soun-in-Council – including High Chief Samuel Otolorin (Aare Ago of Ogbomosoland) and High Chief Mrs Ogundare Rebecca (Iyalode of Ogbomosoland) – were also present.
“These incidents are not merely community tragedies; they are wounds felt across the entirety of Ogbomosoland,” Oba Olaoye said in a statement.
“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.”
The traditional ruler appealed to youths, community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and to cooperate fully with security agencies by providing credible and timely information.
“Security is a collective responsibility,” he added. “Together, we must play our part in protecting our people and preserving peace.”
He also called on all relevant authorities and security institutions to sustain and intensify efforts aimed at securing communities, protecting schools and restoring lasting peace across the affected areas. He noted that assurances had been received that rescue operations and additional security measures are ongoing.
The Soun expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde for their commitment to ensuring the safe return of the abducted persons and the restoration of security.
He also commended the Inspector General of Police, the Commissioner of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Director-General of the DSS, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Amotekun Corps, the Hunters Association, local vigilante groups, and all security personnel serving with courage and dedication.
Oba Olaoye concluded with a prayer for the safe and speedy return of all those still in captivity, urging unity and resilience: “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.”
May Almighty God, he added, comfort every affected family, protect the children, strengthen security personnel, and grant permanent peace, safety and prosperity to Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada and every community across Ogbomosoland.
