The Aare Alawo Ekun of Ofiki Land, Oba Adeoye Gbenga Adigun Oyetunji Oyinlola II, JP, has congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies in Oyo State over the safe rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area.
In a press release issued on behalf of the Aare-In-Council and the people of Ofiki Land, Oba Oyinlola described the rescue as a demonstration of strong will and dedication by the governor as Chief Security Officer of the state.
“It takes a strong will and dedication as the Chief Security officer of the state to fulfill such a promise made during the trying moments,” the monarch said. “May Almighty God continue to lead and guide you in all ramifications.”
The traditional ruler also used the opportunity to charge local government chairmen across the state to be more proactive on security matters. He urged them to engage traditional rulers and community security stakeholders, and to provide necessary logistics support to aid grassroots security efforts.
Oba Oyinlola further called on the state government to take a new stance on forest reserves, which he said have become havens for kidnappers.
“May Almighty God continue to protect and bless the government of Oyo State and all security agencies in the state,” he added.
The pupils and teachers were abducted from schools in Esiele and Yawota communities of Orire LGA on May 15. The Presidency confirmed on Friday that they have regained freedom following a rescue operation in which eight suspects were arrested.
