The Oyo State Government has urged opposition politicians to refrain from politicising the recent kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the situation as a sensitive security matter that demands collective responsibility rather than political point-scoring.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, issued the warning while responding to allegations linking the deaths of personnel of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, to the Oriire kidnapping case.
According to Oyelade, Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier disclosed that approximately 200 Amotekun operatives had lost their lives since the security outfit was established six years ago. He clarified that the figure represented casualties recorded over the years and should not be misinterpreted as deaths resulting from the recent Oriire incident.
The commissioner expressed concern over attempts by some political actors to distort facts surrounding the kidnapping, stressing that such actions could undermine ongoing efforts to secure the release of victims and restore confidence among residents,He called on all stakeholders to approach the issue from a non-partisan perspective, noting that the safety of schoolchildren, teachers and communities affected by insecurity should remain the overriding priority.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security operations across the state and collaborating with relevant agencies to tackle criminal activities. It also appealed to residents to support security agencies with useful information that could aid rescue operations and prevent future attacks.
The Oriire kidnapping has generated widespread concern in Oyo State, with authorities continuing efforts to address the security challenges facing vulnerable communities.
