“This should concern every one of us” – Saraki reacts to Oyo abductions

Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki has condemned the recent attacks, abductions and killing recorded in parts of Oyo state.

Saraki described the incidents as heartbreaking and called on the Federal Government and security agencies to act urgently.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the former Kwara state governor referenced attacks on schools in Orire LGA and the abduction of workers at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Ibadan.

According to him, gunmen attacked three schools in Orire LGA on May 15 and abducted dozens of students and seven teachers.

Saraki also referenced the killing of Michael Oyedokun, a teacher whose video plea for help circulated online before he was reportedly murdered.

He added that two staff members of CRIN at Idi-Ayunre in Ibadan were abducted by armed men on May 19.

He said: “All of this, in a matter of days, in one state. This is heartbreaking. It is painful. And it should concern every one of us.

“Innocent people, including young children, children who should be at home with their parents, are being held captive. The severity of the situation cannot be overstated.”

The former Senate president expressed condolences to the family of Oyedokun and other victims affected by the attacks.

“I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Michael Oyedokun and to all those who have been affected by these tragic incidents.

“My thoughts and prayers are with them, and with every family anxiously waiting for the safe return of their loved ones,” he said.

Saraki urged security agencies to deploy all available resources towards rescuing those still in captivity and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

“I urge the Federal Government and our security agencies to act with urgency and deploy every available resource to secure the release of all those still in captivity. Those responsible for these cruel and senseless acts must be found and brought to justice,” he added.