Soun of Ogbmoso urges patience over rescue of abducted schoolchildren

Crime Diary

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, has appealed for patience in efforts to rescue the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, saying security agencies are proceeding cautiously to avoid endangering the lives of the captives.

Appearing on the Arise Television Morning Show, Wednesday, the monarch stressed that the gruesome killing of one of the abducted teachers — who was beheaded by kidnappers in a viral video — starkly illustrates the ruthless and dangerous nature of the criminals involved.

According to him, the incident demonstrates the need for security operatives to act carefully and strategically during rescue efforts.

“The manner in which they killed the teacher shows the kind of people we are dealing with. We have to tread carefully so that the captives are not harmed,” he said.

Oba Olaoye noted that the kidnappers had also used explosives against local vigilantes and others who attempted to rescue the victims, further highlighting the security risks involved. “They sent a message that we have to tread carefully,” he added.

The traditional ruler disclosed that he visited the affected community alongside Governor Seyi Makinde, while a high-powered federal delegation led by the National Security Adviser (NSA) also visited the area on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He defended the response of both the state and federal governments, insisting that the authorities were taking the matter seriously.

“The NSA told me this is something that has kept the President awake. I do not feel that the governor or the President is insensitive,” he said.

Responding to concerns raised by teachers and civil society groups who have staged protests over the prolonged captivity of the victims, the monarch described the incident as an isolated but tragic occurrence.

He said efforts were underway to strengthen security around schools through increased patrols and the deployment of security personnel.

According to him, the Federal Government has approved the deployment of 1,000 forest guards to enhance security in vulnerable areas, including schools.

Oba Olaoye appealed to the families of the abducted victims to remain strong and continue to have faith in ongoing rescue efforts.

“I want the parents to know that this is a challenging time. They should remain strong, be patient and have faith that the government is doing everything possible to secure the release of their children,” he said.

The monarch also called for greater involvement of traditional rulers in community policing and security management, urging the government to provide the necessary resources to enable royal institutions to support security efforts at the grassroots.

He warned that insecurity and banditry pose a serious threat to community development and economic growth.

“We are putting in place a major security plan to create greater security awareness and develop new strategies to make our town safer,” he said.

“Security must remain a top priority because no community or state can achieve meaningful development without it.”