Yoruba activist Sunday Igboho has reacted to the recent kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, expressing willingness to assist in the rescue operation.
Speaking about the incident, he said he had already informed the authorities of his willingness to intervene with his security squad, but said he had been advised to be patient while awaiting approval.
“I am not asking for money. Governor Makinde knows I have the capacity to rescue kidnapped victims from Oriire. I told them I am surrendering with my squad to rescue them, but they told us to be patient. But then, until when? Why didn’t he give me permission?” he said.
Igboho also said that he had earlier established a security network known as ‘Iru Ekun’, which was said to have received approval from the federal government, but he claimed that the state government was opposed to its operation.
He further explained that he complied with the directive despite his will to act, adding that his past experiences influenced his decision to pursue legal action.
“I set up the ‘Iru Ekun’ safety net and the federal government gave me the green light. But the state government did not approve it, saying no one should do anything without approval. I had to comply. You all know what happened to me five years ago.
“I have no children in Nigeria who cannot be kidnapped. I am doing this only because of the love I have for the nation and for the people who have no one,” he added.
The statement adds to the ongoing talks on insecurity in Oyo State and the coordination of rescue operations in cases of kidnappings.
