A chieftain of African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Chief Oyebisi Ilaka, has expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt sympathy to the people of Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the horrifying bandits’ attack on Esiele and Yawota communities, which led to the abduction of pupils, teachers, and the gruesome killing of innocent residents.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Chief Ilaka described the tragic incident as painful, barbaric, and a direct assault on humanity, education, and the peace-loving people of Oyo State.
The ADC governorship hopeful specifically commiserated with the residents of Esiele and Yawota communities, families of the victims who lost their lives during the attack, as well as parents and guardians of pupils abducted from Esiele Secondary School and Yawota Primary School. He also sympathized with the management of the affected schools, particularly the school principal and staff members who were reportedly taken away by the criminals during the invasion.
Chief Ilaka lamented that the ugly development has thrown the communities into fear, grief, and uncertainty, noting that no society can thrive in an atmosphere where children can no longer go to school safely.
According to him, “The attack on innocent school children, teachers, and residents of Esiele and Yawota is one tragedy too many. It is heartbreaking that criminal elements now operate with such boldness in communities that were once peaceful and secure. I deeply sympathize with the bereaved families, the abducted victims, and the entire people of Orire Local Government over this unfortunate and painful incident.”
He further condemned the continuous insecurity around the Old Oyo National Park axis, alleging that the vast forest and surrounding jungle have increasingly become hideouts for kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements who terrorize innocent citizens with impunity.
Chief Ilaka therefore charged both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to urgently rise to the occasion by deploying maximum security surveillance and military operations around the Old Oyo National Park and adjoining forests within the next 24 hours in order to flush out criminal gangs operating within the area.
“The time has come for decisive action. The Federal Government, through the security agencies, and the Oyo State Government must collaborate effectively to secure the Old Oyo National Park and its surrounding forests which have now become dangerous safe havens for criminals. Our people deserve to sleep with their eyes closed without fear of attacks or abduction,” he stated.
The former Chief of Staff to the Oyo State Government also urged security agencies not to relent until all abducted pupils, teachers, and residents are rescued unhurt and reunited with their families.
While praying for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the attack, Chief Ilaka equally prayed for divine comfort for their families and speedy rescue of all kidnapped victims.
He concluded by praying for enduring peace, unity, and security across Oyo State and Nigeria at large, expressing hope that the nation would overcome the current security challenges confronting it.
“May peace reign supreme in Nigeria, and may God continue to protect our people from evil and violence,” the statement added.
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