The Oke-Ode Community Development Association (OOCDA) has condemned the recent bandit attack on Oke-Ode town, which claimed the lives of about 15 vigilantes and a village head, while leaving five others kidnapped.
In a statement issued in Ilorin, the National President of OOCDA, Alhaji AbdulGaniyu Ajala-Bello, described the incident as dastardly and urged government authorities to intensify security measures. He also called on residents to remain vigilant in the face of growing insecurity.
The statement, signed on his behalf by the National Publicity Secretary of the Association, Mr. Kunle Akogun, conveyed condolences to the families of the slain security operatives and the Bale of Ogba-Ayo, who lost their lives in the attack. It also extended sympathy to the wounded and families of those abducted.
Alhaji Ajala-Bello prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased, quick recovery for the injured, and the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims. He acknowledged that the attack had caused fear and anxiety within the community but appealed for calm, assuring that steps were being taken to curb banditry and kidnapping in the Oke-Ode axis.
The community leader urged residents to exercise greater caution, particularly regarding the movement of strangers, and to promptly report suspicious activities to security agents.
He further appealed to both the Kwara State Government and the Federal Government to adopt more proactive measures to end the nefarious activities of bandits in the area. Ajala-Bello also stressed the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies to prevent future attacks.
