Gunmen

Richard Elesho

The Kogiwest apex sociocultural group, Okun Development Association, ODA, has condemned recurrent security breaches in the area, causing the people to live in fear and called for the rescue of a first-class traditional ruler, Oba David Ogunyand,a who was abducted from his palace in Okoloke, Yagbawest Local Government Area on Thursday morning.

Dayo Thomas, National Publicity Secretary of the group who made the call in a statement on Friday, noted that the incident highlights the state of insecurity in Okunland and charged the people to remain united and security conscious. The statement reads:

“The Okun Development Association (ODA) is appalled by the recent abduction of His Royal Highness, , OBA OGUNYANDA  of OKOLOKE, YAGBA W LGA, which starkly highlights the alarming insecurity plaguing Okunland, particularly in Yagba Land. This heinous act is a culmination of the growing trend of kidnappings, attacks, and desecration of sacred traditional institutions in our communities. The people of Okunland live in fear, with farmers unable to tend to their lands and traditional palaces being disrespected.

“The ODA condemns this act of violence in the strongest possible terms and demands that relevant authorities take immediate and decisive action. We urge security agencies to deploy adequate measures to protect our communities, farmers, and traditional institutions. Furthermore, we call for the identification and prosecution of the perpetrators of these crimes.

“The persistent insecurity in Okunland is unacceptable. We stand united in demanding that our leaders take concrete steps to restore peace and security in our land. We urge our people to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the authorities. Community cooperation is crucial in the fight against insecurity.

“The ODA extends solidarity to the family of Oba Okoloke and all those affected by these heinous acts. We pray for their safe return and the restoration of peace in our communities. We call on all stakeholders to work together to address this security crisis. Together, we can reclaim our communities and ensure a safer future for all.”