***Urges Government to Give Activist Free Hand in Search for Abducted Pupils, Teachers
Chief Olayiwola Bankole Adisa, popularly known as Oluwo Agbaye, has urged government authorities to allow Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Igboho, to assist in efforts to rescue the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with a Daily Independent reporter, Oluwo Agbaye said the worsening security situation in parts of the South-West requires the collective efforts of all individuals capable of contributing to the protection of lives and property.
His call follows recent comments by Sunday Igboho, who lamented that although he has the capacity to help secure the release of the victims, he has not been granted approval by the state government to intervene.
Reacting to the development, Oluwo Agbaye said Igboho should be given the opportunity to support ongoing rescue efforts.
“My advice to the government is to allow Sunday Igboho to carry out his duty as a Yoruba man. He is capable of helping in this situation,” he said.
The traditional leader noted that the activist has over the years shown commitment to confronting security threats in the South-West and believes his involvement could make a difference.
“The whole world would support him if given the chance,” he added.
Oluwo Agbaye, however, questioned whether Igboho would be allowed to operate freely, warning that insecurity could worsen if urgent action is not taken.
“But will he be allowed to act freely? If not, we may reach a point where we cannot even go to churches or mosques safely,” he cautioned.
He also called on Yoruba people to put aside political differences and unite in tackling insecurity, stressing that internal divisions often weaken collective efforts to protect communities.
“God has given us the ability to do great things, but some people are hindering efforts to secure our land. There are many people willing to support efforts against insecurity, but they need leadership,” he said.
Oluwo Agbaye further urged authorities to explore every lawful means to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, insisting that the safety and welfare of the victims must remain the top priority.
He also advised against excessive publicity during rescue operations, saying sensitive security matters should be handled discreetly.
“Whenever we are planning security operations or rescue missions, we should not turn it into a media spectacle. We should do things in secrecy and avoid social media interference. Yoruba people should hold serious meetings without cameras or publicity,” he said.
The traditional ruler’s remarks come amid growing anxiety over the fate of the abducted children and teachers, as residents and stakeholders continue to call for intensified efforts to secure their safe return.
