Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Tuesday dismissed a false alarm regarding alleged kidnappings in schools across parts of the state, asserting that no confirmed abduction case has occurred in any educational institution. He reassured the public that his administration has implemented proactive security measures to protect both public and private schools, ensuring a safe learning environment.
Statement on False Alarm
In a statement released by the governor's spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the rumor of kidnapping was described as the handiwork of malicious elements within the opposition. The statement urged the public to disregard the false alarm and avoid panic. It read, “I task our people to go about their normal activities without fear. Our government has taken steps to secure our schools. The Ministry of Education and the relevant security agencies have worked out a security strategy that is being implemented.”
Reassurance to Parents
Adeleke further assured parents and guardians not to panic, emphasizing that the alarm was false and orchestrated by opposition figures seeking to destabilize the state. He reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining peace and order.
Refurbished Armoured Vehicles
Updating the public on armoured vehicles allegedly abandoned by the previous Oyetola administration, the governor revealed that the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) have been fully refurbished and are ready for deployment. He explained that his administration inherited the damaged APCs from various locations and rehabilitated them for use in joint security operations.
“The Oyetola administration inherited the APCs from the Aregbesola administration. The last administration however left them to rot. My government has rehabilitated them and the public will soon witness a new security plan to strengthen the security of lives and properties in Osun state,” the governor remarked.
Warning to Opposition
Adeleke cautioned against incitement to criminal conduct by opposition elements, warning that the local intelligence network is actively monitoring border towns and identified hotspots. “No stone will be left unturned to guarantee the security of our schools, our pupils, residents, citizens and properties,” he added.
