The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, has assured residents of Esiele, Yawota and Ahoro-Dada communities of the solidarity and support of Ogbomosoland following recent security breaches and abductions that have unsettled the affected areas.
The monarch gave the assurance on Saturday during a visit to the communities shortly after returning to Ogbomoso, describing the recent attacks and kidnappings as painful incidents that have left many families in fear and uncertainty.
Oba Olaoye said the visit was necessary to personally identify with the people, assess the situation firsthand and offer words of encouragement to residents affected by the security challenges.
He was accompanied by the Onisapa of Isapa Kingdom, Oba Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide; the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji; the Alapa of Okin-Apa, Oba Akinola John Akintola, as well as members of the Soun-in-Council, including High Chief Samuel Otolorin, the Aare Ago of Ogbomosoland, and High Chief (Mrs.) Ogundare Rebecca, the Iyalode of Ogbomosoland.
According to the monarch, the abduction of students, teachers and other residents from the affected communities has deeply saddened the entire Ogbomosoland.
“These incidents are not merely community tragedies; they are wounds felt across the entirety of Ogbomosoland,” he said.
The Soun urged affected families to remain hopeful, assuring them that the entire Ogbomosoland shares in their grief and concerns while continuing to pray for the safe and speedy return of all those still in captivity.
He also appealed to youths, community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible and timely information that could aid efforts to secure the communities.
“Security is a collective responsibility, and together we must play our part in protecting our people and preserving peace,” he stated.
Oba Olaoye further called on relevant authorities and security institutions to intensify ongoing efforts to secure communities, protect schools and restore lasting peace to the affected areas.
While expressing confidence in ongoing rescue operations and additional security measures, the monarch said the people remained hopeful that the efforts would produce positive results.
The Soun also conveyed the appreciation of Ogbomosoland to Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Seyi Makinde for their commitment toward ensuring the safe return of the abducted persons and restoring security in the area.
He equally commended the security agencies, including the Police, Armed Forces, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, Hunters Association and local vigilante groups for their dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
The monarch urged residents not to allow fear to weaken their collective resolve, stressing that Ogbomosoland has always been known for strength, courage and unity.
He prayed for God’s comfort for affected families, protection for children, strength for security personnel and enduring peace across Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada and other communities in Ogbomosoland.
