Oyo attack: Ooni calls for united front in tackling kidnapping

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has condemned the recent attack on schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, calling for swift security action and a united national effort against kidnapping and violent crimes across the country.

In a statement released on Monday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the monarch described the abduction of students and teachers from schools within the Ahoro-Esiele/Yawota axis of Ogbomoso as heartbreaking, disturbing, and unacceptable.

The traditional ruler lamented that innocent pupils, teachers, and residents were subjected to terror following the invasion of the communities by armed gunmen who reportedly attacked Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele; L.A.Primary School, Esiele; and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School.

Ooni Ogunwusi expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives recorded during the incident, including those of Assistant Headmaster Joel Adesiyan, a commercial motorcyclist, and one of the abducted teachers, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed in captivity.

According to the Ooni, attacks on schools and educational communities represent a direct assault on the future of the nation, stressing that children and teachers must never become victims of criminal activities.

The Ooni therefore called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations to ensure the safe return of all victims still in captivity, while bringing the perpetrators of the attack to justice.

He also urged governments at all levels to strengthen the security architecture in vulnerable communities, particularly around schools and rural settlements, to prevent future occurrences.

The Ooni further appealed to Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information, vigilance, and community cooperation, noting that the fight against kidnapping requires collective responsibility and national unity.

Ooni Ogunwusi equally sympathized with the families of security operatives, Amotekun Corps members, and local vigilantes who reportedly lost their lives during the rescue efforts, describing their sacrifices as patriotic and heroic.

While praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased, the Ooni asked Olodumare to comfort the bereaved families and grant quick freedom to all abducted victims still in captivity.