Oyo Attack Has Brought Pain, Fear, Uncertainty To Families – Soun Of Ogbomosoland

The Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye Afolabi, has said that the recent attacks and security breaches affecting Esiele, Yawota, Ahoro-Dada and neighbouring communities have brought pain, fear and uncertainty to families across the region.

Speaking during a visit to the affected communities, the monarch said the abduction of students, teachers and residents had deeply shaken the entire Ogbomosoland, describing the incidents as collective wounds rather than isolated community tragedies.

“This afternoon, immediately upon my return to Ogbomoso, my first assignment was to visit the communities of Esiele, Yawota, and Ahoro-Dada. The recent security challenges and unfortunate incidents that have affected these communities have weighed heavily on my heart, and I considered it imperative to personally identify with our people, assess the situation firsthand, and offer words of encouragement and solidarity,” he said.

The monarch assured affected families that they were not alone in their ordeal, stressing that the entire Ogbomosoland stood in solidarity with them during the difficult period.

“To the affected families and residents, I want you to know that you are not alone. The entire Ogbomosoland stands with you during this difficult period. We share in your grief, your concerns, and your hopes. We continue to pray earnestly for the safe and speedy return of all those who remain in captivity and for comfort for every family affected by these unfortunate events,” he said.

Oba Olaoye urged youths, community leaders and residents to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with credible and timely information that could assist ongoing operations.

“Security is a collective responsibility, and together, we must play our part in protecting our people and preserving peace,” he added.

He also called on relevant authorities and security institutions to intensify ongoing efforts aimed at securing communities, protecting schools and restoring lasting peace across the affected areas, expressing optimism that current rescue operations would yield positive results.

The monarch expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for their commitment to securing the safe return of abducted persons and restoring stability in the region.

He also commended the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs, the DSS, NSCDC, Amotekun Corps, hunters, vigilante groups and other security stakeholders for their efforts in protecting lives and property.

“This is a time for unity, resilience and unwavering faith. We must not allow fear to divide us, discourage us or weaken our collective resolve,” he said.

“Ogbomosoland has always been a people of strength, courage and solidarity, and together we shall overcome these challenges and emerge stronger.”

He prayed for divine protection over affected communities, asking for comfort for grieving families and lasting peace across Ogbomosoland.

The monarch was accompanied by traditional rulers including Oba Bolarinwa Ezekiel Olajide, the Onisapa of Isapa Kingdom; Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji, the Alajaawa of Ajaawa; and Oba (Prof.) Akinola John Akintola, the Alapa of Okin-Apa, alongside members of the Soun-in-Council.