The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has strongly condemned the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as heartbreaking, disturbing, and unacceptable.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Mr. Moses Olafare, the revered monarch expressed deep sadness over the loss of lives during the attack, including that of Assistant Headmaster Joel Adesiyan and abducted teacher Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed in captivity.
The Ooni noted that innocent pupils, teachers, and residents in the Ahoro-Esiele/Yawota axis of Ogbomoso were subjected to terror by armed gunmen who invaded their communities. He described the attacks on schools and educational institutions as “a direct assault on the future of the country,” stressing that children and teachers must never become victims of criminal activities.
Oba Ogunwusi called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations to ensure the safe return of all victims still in captivity and to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay. He urged governments at all levels to strengthen security architecture in vulnerable communities, particularly around schools and rural settlements, to prevent future occurrences.
The foremost traditional ruler appealed to all Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information, remain vigilant, and foster community cooperation. He emphasized the need for a united national effort to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.
“Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has condemned the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, calling for swift security action and a united national effort against kidnapping and violent crimes across the country,” the statement read in part.
The Ooni reiterated his commitment to the peace, progress, and security of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole, while praying for the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the healing of affected families and communities.