The Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission Chairman and community leader, Chief Alaba Abejide, has described the gruesome murder of the two prominent Ekiti obas as sacrilegious, heinous and barbaric, describing the incident as deeply saddening and shocking.
According to him, the murder of these respected traditional rulers, Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin; and Olumojo of Imojo, Oba Adebayo Fatoba, has caused immense grief and apprehension among the people of not only Ekiti but also across Nigeria.
He said that the obas that were not only custodians of our culture and heritage but also pillars of peace and development in their respective communities did not deserve that kind of murder, adding that their loss is not only a tragedy to their families, but also a great blow to the institution of obaship that has been desecrated, dishonoured by alleged bandits who committed the abominable acts.
Chief Abejide commended the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for his swift response to the heinous act, noting that his commitment to addressing security challenges especially in Ekamefa area of the state deserves applause.
He appreciated the efforts by the government so far in securing the lives and properties of the people of Ekiti and enjoin the people of the State to support the efforts of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji in stamping out the menace. Chief Abejide reiterated that security of lives and properties is a collective responsibility of every citizenry adding that government cannot do it alone without the resolve and collaboration of all the stakeholders.
The Chairman added: “ The latest incident serves as a grim reminder that there is still much work to be done by all stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of our people. I call upon the security agencies to intensify efforts in arresting the perpetrators of the dastard acts and bring them to justice”.
He also called for collaboration among these agencies in order not to leave any stone unturned in rescuing the kidnapped school pupils in Eporo Ekiti in Emure Local Government area of Ekiti State.
The community leader stressed that in the wake of this unfortunate incident, it is imperative for all residents of Ekiti State to remain vigilant and be security conscious. He urged everyone to be more proactive in reporting any suspicious activities or movements to the relevant authorities.
He added: “By working together and cooperating with law enforcement agencies, we can help to weed out the bad eggs among our people and maintain a peaceful and secure environment for all.”
Chief Abejide emphasized the importance of communal solidarity during this difficult time and encouraged the people of Ekiti State to come together, support the affected royalties while he prayed that God grants the monarchs eternal peace.
