Newsry news
2nd September, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
It is disheartening to observe the rampant and distressing incidents of kidnapping taking place in Ekiti State. It seems as though there is a lack of effective leadership and responsibility in ensuring the security of the people in Ekiti.
The Ekiti State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Architect Sodiq Obanoyen, strongly condemns the recurring kidnappings. Ekiti PDP averred that these acts of violence do not discriminate; both prominent individuals and ordinary citizens have fallen victim to these heinous crimes. The situation has reached a point where even farmers going about their daily lives are targeted.
The Party asserts that it is an act of cruelty for a ruling Party that has pushed her citizens deeper into poverty and displayed insensitivity towards their well-being to be unable to ensure their security. A government that demonstrates apathy towards the welfare and safety of her citizens is highly irresponsible and inept.
Ekiti PDP has previously condemned the kidnapping of the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress a few weeks ago, and we are deeply disturbed by the subsequent incidents of killing and kidnapping within the State in such a short period. We wholeheartedly condemn these actions and call upon the governor to take immediate action to put an end to these horrific incidents.
We urge the police and Amotekun Corps to intensify their efforts in tracking down and bringing the perpetrators of these recent kidnappings to justice. We heard that the incidents, which occurred in Itapaji, Ikole Local Government area, resulted in the loss of one life and the kidnapping of two others. The PDP is concerned about the passive stance of the government and advises the ruling Party to take swift action to prevent the State from descending into further chaos resembling a killing field in Hobbesian proportion.
To address this crisis, we suggest that the State government should establish a dedicated force of security agents and mobilise all government and security resources to resist such horrendous actions. Additionally, we believe that increased security measures should be implemented in towns near the Kwara and Kogi borders to prevent incursions from inter-state bandits.
Furthermore, the Ekiti PDP implores the governor to consider the following suggestions:
- Strengthening Law Enforcement Agencies: We want Governor Oyebanji to equip the police and other security agencies with adequate training, resources, and equipment to effectively combat kidnapping and other crimes. The allocated security votes must be used transparently to provide security for the people of Ekiti and not for personal gain.
- Intelligence Gathering and Sharing: The state government should invest in comprehensive intelligence gathering and sharing systems. The use of technology can aid in monitoring and tracking criminal activities, while cooperation between different security agencies and the public can facilitate the sharing of vital information about potential threats.
- Community Policing: The active involvement of community members in maintaining law and order can foster trust between the police and the community. This collaboration can enhance intelligence gathering and enable swift responses to incidents.
- Legislation and Judicial Measures: Strict laws against kidnapping must be enacted and followed by swift and fair trials for the accused criminals. This will serve as a deterrent to potential kidnappers.
- Economic Measures: Addressing poverty, unemployment, and inequality is essential in reducing the root causes of crime. Since his party the All Progressives Congress must be held accountable for exacerbating the plight of the poor. Implementing policies focused on job creation, poverty reduction, and social inclusion can contribute to diminishing incidents of kidnapping.
- Public Awareness and Education: The government should initiate public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the perils of kidnapping and how to protect themselves. This should include information on identifying potential kidnappers and reporting them to authorities.
- Collaboration with Other States and Countries: Since kidnappings often involve crossing state or national borders, cooperation with neighboring states and countries is crucial in tracking down and apprehending kidnappers.
- Support for Victims: Providing support for kidnapping victims, including psychological assistance, can aid in their recovery and encourage others to come forward with information that may help capture the offenders.
We expect the ruling Party and Governor Biodun Oyebanji to treat this matter with utmost seriousness and avoid engaging in populism. The suggestions put forth by the Ekiti PDP aim to highlight areas where the government has fallen short of meeting the aspirations of the Ekiti people. It is our hope that the governor will take heed and take effective action.
Aare Amerijoye DOT.B.
Ekiti State Peoples Democratic Party CTC Publicity Secretary.
2nd September, 2023
