The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent abduction of six schoolchildren and their teachers in Ekiti State, calling on the government for their swift and safe return. In a situation that has heightened concerns across the nation, NANS also demanded increased security in schools and nearby communities to avert similar incidents in the future.
NANS National President, Lucky Emonefe, highlighted in a statement the dire consequences of unchecked kidnappings in Nigeria, warning that they could contribute to the already high number of over 20 million out-of-school children in the country.
Simultaneously, the Ogun State Council of Traditional Rulers expressed its deep sorrow over the reported killings of two monarchs in Ekiti State. Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Adewale Babatunde Ajayi, through his spokesman, Baamofin of Remoland, Bayo Onafuwa, extended condolences to the bereaved families and urged the government to prioritize citizen protection amidst growing insecurity.
In a parallel development, the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers took a proactive stance by instructing all local monarchs to expel bandits and kidnappers from the forests in Ekiti. Following an emergency meeting with the governor, the traditional leaders, led by Oba Ayorinde Ilori Faboro, the Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, issued a communiqué urging the state government to provide resources to help secure their regions. They emphasized the urgency of apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
Moreover, in a significant inter-state collaboration, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, deployed 100 operatives to Ekiti State to assist in the rescue of the kidnapped pupils. Adetunji Adeleye, Ondo State’s Corps Commander, informed that the operatives were ordered by Aiyedatiwa to aid in locating and arresting the kidnappers. Already, several arrests have been made in the ongoing investigation, demonstrating a united front against the kidnappers.
These developments highlight a concerted effort by various entities, from student organizations to traditional rulers and security agencies, to combat the rising tide of insecurity and kidnapping in Nigeria. The situation in Ekiti has galvanized a multi-faceted response, underscoring the urgency and gravity of the security challenges facing the country.
