By Remi Adebayo
The Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, on Saturday visited the communities attacked recently in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State where school pupils and some of their teachers were abducted.
The first-class monarch revealed this on Saturday via his verified Facebook page where he stated that the visits were his first assignment immediately upon his return to his domain.
According to the traditional ruler, the visit took him to Esiele, Yawota, and Ahoro-Dada communities attacked by terrorists two weeks ago.
"The recent security challenges and unfortunate incidents that have affected these communities have weighed heavily on my heart, and I considered it imperative to personally identify with our people, assess the situation firsthand, and offer words of encouragement and solidarity."
The Soun was accompanied on the visit by Oba Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide, the Onisapa of Isapa Kingdom; Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji, the Alajaawa of Ajaawa; and Oba (Prof.) Akinola John Akintola, the Alapa of Okin-Apa.
Also on the Soun's entourage were members of the Soun-in-Council, including High Chief Samuel Otolorin, the Aarego of Ogbomosoland; and High Chief (Mrs.) Rebecca Kolawole, the Iyalode of Ogbomosoland.
Oba Olaoye maintained that the recent attacks and security breaches affecting Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada, and neighboring 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.
"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. We continue to pray earnestly for the safe and speedy return of all those who remain in captivity and for comfort for every family affected by these unfortunate events," Oba Olaoye said.
He appealed to the 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.
"Furthermore, I respectfully call on all relevant authorities and security institutions to sustain and intensify ongoing efforts aimed at securing our communities, protecting our schools, and restoring lasting peace across the affected areas.
"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 said.
On behalf of his subjects, the monarch expressed profound appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for his commitment and support towards ensuring the safe return of the abducted persons and the restoration of security within the communities.
He further commended the Inspector General of Police, Oyo State 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 who continue to serve with courage, dedication, and sacrifice in the protection of lives and property.
"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 charged.
Oba Olaoye prayed for God to comfort every affected family, protect the children, strengthen the security personnel, and grant permanent peace, safety, and prosperity to communities in Ogbomoso.
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