Akinyele killings: Declare state of emergency in security – NGO, traditionalists tell Makinde

A non-governmental organization, Mediation Conciliation, and Human Rights Center (MCHRC) on Friday enjoined Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to without delay, declare a state of emergency in Akinyele local government area of the state due to incessant killings.

DAILY POST recalls that no fewer than five (5) people were killed while two others were injured in various attacks in some parts of the local government in June.

Four women; Barakat Bello, Azeezat Shomuyiwa, Grace Oshiagwu and Olusayo Fagbemi and a five-year-old boy, identified as Mujeeb were killed in June in the local government area.

A 45-year old woman, Adeola Bamidele and her daughter, Dolapo Bamidele, were cut severally with cutlasses and other dangerous weapons by some suspected ritualists in the local government area.

But, MCHRC, while reacting, urged the state government to declare a state of emergency in the local government area in a bid to halt the killings.

MCHRC Founder, Comrade Kehinde Akinyemi who spoke with DAILY POST on Friday noted that the recent killings called for a serious concern of all stakeholders.

He said, “The recent killings some involving rape in Akinyele Local Government Area is a serious cause for concern. There are ritualists undertone in the killings as most of the rape and murders are likened to the Badoos way of operation in Ikorodu some years ago.

“It calls for an immediate declaration of emergency in the security of lives and properties in the area. The Police must get to the root of the evil, expose the perpetrators and ensure the prevalence of Justice without delay.

“My observation is that most victims of the dastardly acts live in secluded and high bushy areas, communities should ensure clearing of bushes around their neighbourhood and raise an alarm of any suspicious strangers in their communities.

”There must be effective synergy between the security agencies and the communities. Governments at all levels on their parts must encourage security agencies with the provision of security equipment and necessary logistics to combat crime.

Secretary-General, Traditional Religion Worshippers’ Association of Oyo State (TRWASSO), Chief Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode in his contribution, advised residents to be vigilant.

He added that there is a need for cooperation on the part of the government and the security agencies where necessary.

He remarked that Kings and Baales in the communities should also not take the security of lives and properties in their jurisdictions for granted.

Fakayode said, “My advice is for all the residents to be vigilant. We need to cooperate with the Government and work with the security agencies where necessary.