Yawota breakthrough

How did we get to this crossroads of insecurity in Nigeria, a country that used to be a citadel of peace and tranquility in the past?

The state of insecurity in the country has reached such a crescendo that even those who are custodians of power are no longer safe! If a retired Major General could be successfully kidnapped and die in the kidnappers’ den, then an ordinary civilian should take heed and exercise adequate precaution.

Remote areas that were once considered places of safety and relaxation have now been transformed into kidnappers’ dens. Villages used to be ideal for relaxation owing to their accommodating atmosphere, fresh vegetables, and natural resources. It is a pity that such serene environments have become something else entirely.

The abduction that took place at Oriire Local Government, specifically at Esiele Yawota, on 15th May, 2026, was a rude shock and unprecedented in the history of the Pacesetter State since its creation in 1976. The abducted pupils and teachers underwent severe psychological distress for 56 days in a forest that was inimical to their health.

Apparently, the joint security operatives intensified their efforts and succeeded in rescuing them on time. The truth of the matter is that these bandits had done their homework thoroughly before they perpetrated their evil act.

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I commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives in the process of rescuing the abductees. Now that the victims have been safely rescued, the pupils involved should be rehabilitated and given new orientation that will erase the trauma and any spirit of militancy from their hearts.

I appreciate the efforts of the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their swift responses from the outset of the unfortunate incident until the victims were released a few days ago.

I, therefore, urge the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to beef up security in the Old Oyo National Park in order to forestall any future occurrence in the region.

Michael Oladimeji

Ibadan.