As Kwara State Police Command confirmed that no fewer than 12 persons, including the Baale of Ogbayo, were killed during last Sunday bandits’ attack on Oke-Ode community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state, President of Ora Grammar School Old Students Association (OGSOSA), Engineer Azeez Abiodun Olaniyan commiserated with the residents and berated the killings of the innocent Nigerians.
Engineer Olaniyan described the recurring insecurity in most parts of Kwara State, especially the South and North, as the collective responsibility of all Kwarans to proffer a lasting solution immediately, instead of apportioning blame.
He said, “The attack in Oke-Ode, which claimed the lives of 12 brave local security volunteers and community members, has once again cast a dark cloud over the safety of some communities in the state. Similar incidents that occurred in some communities in Kaiama, Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas are still fresh in mind.
”The vigilante members were patriotic citizens who stepped forward to defend their communities and their deaths are a national loss and a wound to our collective conscience.
“These tragic incidents are painful reminders of the escalating insecurity that continues to threaten innocent lives across the state .It is important for all of us to unite and fight the monsters who are killing our brothers and sisters.”
In his statement , Ora born Engineer mourned with the families — wives, children and loved ones — of the fallen heroes, and extended his sympathy to the Oke-Ode community, the people of Kwara State and the country.
Azeez Olaniyan cautioned against any attempt to ethnicise or tribalise the incident, stressing that crime should never be linked to any tribe, religion or group.
As he urged Kwara State Government to intensify efforts in addressing the recurring violence, Olaniyan pleaded with the residents to support Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to rout criminals involved in the attacks.
He emphasised the need for full collaboration among local communities, state authorities and federal security agencies to put an end to the persistent threats.
Meanwhile, Engineer Olaniyan informed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigerian Army in Ibadan to immediately relocate to Kwara State to further coordinate and boost military response to the development.
He appealed to residents to remain vigilant and to promptly share any useful information that could help security operatives prevent further tragedies.
