The Archbishop of Ibadan Province and Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese,Most Revd Williams O. Aladekugbe, has strongly condemned the abduction of pupils, teachers and residents in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the attack as “despicable,” “barbaric,” “ungodly,” and “criminal.”
In a statement titled “Abduction of Staff and Pupils of Some Schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State: A Despicable and Condemnable Act,” the cleric said the incident came as a “rude shock” and could not be justified under any circumstance.
Archbishop Aladekugbe particularly condemned the reported killing of one of the abducted teachers, identified as a mathematics teacher, describing the act as immoral and inhuman.
He sympathized with Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State government and affected families, while urging security agencies and all levels of government to collaborate to secure the immediate release of the remaining victims.
The Archbishop also cautioned politicians against politicising the tragedy or introducing religious sentiments into the security crisis, stressing that insecurity does not recognise political or religious differences.
He renewed calls for stronger security measures, improved profiling of suspicious individuals entering communities, and greater government investment in the protection of lives and property.
While commending the Makinde administration for what he described as years of people-oriented governance, the cleric urged political actors to handle sensitive security matters with responsibility and the fear of God.
He concluded by expressing sympathy to the abducted victims and their families and prayed for divine intervention, the safe return of the captives, and lasting peace in Oyo State and Nigeria.
