***Urges Community Leaders to be Vigilant, Commends State Government for Swift Intervention
By Sola Obagbemisoye
Concerned about the rising wave of kidnappings and incessant killings in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, the Ondo State Flagship Group (OSFG), Akure North chapter, held a strategic meeting in Oba-Ile to deliberate on solutions to the growing security threats.
The meeting brought together members from all 12 wards of the council area, who painted a grim picture of the security situation. They recounted how bandits have displaced numerous farmers in Itaogbolu, Iju, and Familugba, forcing many to abandon their farmlands.
At Ogbese, it was reported that about 10 armed kidnappers recently invaded the bustling commercial village, shot a man dead, and abducted a market woman in broad daylight. Similarly, at Familugba, bandits suspected to be herdsmen have allegedly killed about 10 farmers. A woman and her baby abducted during one of the attacks remain missing.
The group expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Government for its prompt intervention, particularly the establishment of a security post at Familugba, provision of a patrol vehicle, and other logistics aimed at curbing the menace.
However, they appealed for increased security presence in Ogbese and regular patrols along the Itaogbolu/Iju/Ikere road to prevent further attacks.
As part of proactive measures, OSFG urged individuals, religious institutions, and especially community leaders to be more vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies. They stressed that intelligence reports indicate some of the attackers work with informants within the communities.
Welcoming members to the meeting, the State Leader of OSFG, Otunba Omoniyi Omodara, emphasized the importance of unity and loyalty to both state and federal governments to uphold the political dignity of Akure North.
The former Commissioner charged attendees to return to their wards and sensitize the electorate on supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, in their efforts to develop the state.
According to him:
“Election is coming. Many maverick politicians will come to you with lies. Please don’t believe them. Remain united, cross-check your facts, and when in doubt, call your leaders. APC remains the party to beat in the coming elections.”
The Akure North OSFG Chairman, Chief Adebayo Isijola, praised the leadership qualities of Otunba Omodara and pledged the group’s unwavering support ahead of the 2027 elections.
In unison, members promised to return to their various wards to mobilize and sensitize residents in preparation for future polls.
Dignitaries present at the meeting included Chief Akin Falae, Chief Sunday Fasaye, and Mrs. Akerele (J.P.). Others were Chief Ayodele Yusuf, Mrs. Comfort Olofin, Mrs. Bosede Akinpelu, and Hon. Felix Temi Fagbemi.
