The Aare Musulumi of Adamasingba and Environs in Ibadan, Aare (Dr.) Adeyinka Adewale, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic abduction of pupils and teachers in Ahoro-Esinele community in Ogbomoso Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as heartbreaking and unfortunate.
In a statement made available to Oodua News on Tuesday in Ibadan, Aare (Dr) Adewale commiserated with the families of the victims, the entire Ahoro-Esinele community, and the government of Oyo State over the disturbing development which also led to the gruesome killing of a teacher, Mr Micheal Oyedokun, who was reportedly beheaded by the assailants on Sunday.
According to him, the incident has once again raised serious concerns over the growing insecurity confronting rural communities and educational institutions across the country, stressing that urgent and decisive actions must be taken to halt the trend.
According to him, the killing of an innocent teacher and the abduction of school children and other staff members represent a painful attack on humanity, education, and the peace of society.
Aare Adewale noted that teachers remain critical stakeholders in nation-building and should never become victims of violence and criminality while carrying out their duties to society.
He described the late Mr. Oyewole Micheal as a dedicated educator whose death has created a painful vacuum not only in the school community but also among residents of the area.
“It is with deep pain and sadness that I received the news of the abduction of pupils and teachers in Ahoro-Esinele community and the barbaric killing of Mr. Oyewole Micheal. This is a tragedy that has thrown the entire community into mourning,” he said.
“No society can make meaningful progress when innocent citizens, especially teachers and school children, are constantly living in fear. The sanctity of human life must be respected at all times.”
Aare (Dr) Adewale appealed to security agencies and the Oyo State Government not to relent in their efforts toward rescuing the abducted victims and ensuring that those behind the heinous act are apprehended and brought to justice.
He urged law enforcement agencies to intensify surveillance and security operations in vulnerable communities, particularly in remote areas where criminal elements often take advantage of weak security presence to perpetrate evil acts.
Aare Adewale also called on residents to remain vigilant and support security operatives with useful information that could aid ongoing rescue operations and investigations.
While praying for the repose of the soul of the slain teacher, he also prayed for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers to their families.
He appealed to the people of the community not to lose hope despite the painful experience, assuring them that the thoughts and prayers of many Nigerians are with them during this difficult period.
The incident has continued to generate reactions from concerned citizens and stakeholders across Oyo State, with many calling for stronger measures to tackle insecurity and protect lives and property, especially within educational environments
