The Oyo state government has participated in a special prayer session organized by the Ibadan Labala Masquerades Group, seeking the safe return of abducted victims in Oriire Local Government Area. The event took place at the Labala shrine in the Labo area of Ibadan, the state capital.
Government Participation in Traditional Prayer
The prayer session was approved by the President of the Labala Masquerades Group Worldwide, Chief Ojeyemi Ajayi, also known as Idunnu Ifa. Commissioner for Information Prince Dotun Oyelade disclosed the government's involvement in a statement released on Wednesday, June 17, made available to journalists in Ibadan.
Commissioner Oyelade explained the rationale behind the government's participation: "The essence is to offer traditional prayers and sacrifices on behalf of the state for the safe return of the abductees and the restoration of peace and security in the state under the leadership of Engr. 'Seyi Makinde."
Official Representative Commends the Group
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism was represented at the event by the General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Kunle Agboola. He noted that several groups and individuals had already organized prayer sessions since the incident occurred but singled out the Labala Masquerades Group's gesture as particularly commendable.
"Thank you for partnering with the government in this challenging moment in our state. Your efforts will not be in vain. We believe that the prayers and sacrifices offered today will yield positive results, and that the abductees will soon reunite with their families. Many groups have organized prayers concerning this incident, but I sincerely appreciate your invitation to the government to participate in this unique spiritual exercise," he said.
Agboola also commended the group's sense of compassion, patriotism, and concern for the well-being of the victims and the state at large.
The event highlights a unique partnership between the community and the state government in addressing security challenges through traditional and spiritual means.
