'We are worried about kidnapped corps members, synergizing with Imo govt'

‘We are worried about kidnapped corps members, synergizing with Imo govt’ — Makinde

Yinka ADETUNJI

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The Oyo state government has disclosed that it is working closely with the government of Imo state and relevant security agencies to secure the safe release of the abducted corps members of Oyo state origin in Imo state.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the governor said the Oyo state government is maintaining close government-to-government contact with the Imo state government, while also engaging actively with the security apparatus in both Oyo and Imo states.

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Prince Oyelade said Oyo state is volunteering the templates and experiences it garnered during the Oriire kidnapping incident, noting that the report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the abduction, submitted last week by the Hon. Justice (Professor) Mojeed Owoade-led panel, is also useful in the ongoing bilateral discussions.

He explained that governments do not ordinarily disclose all the measures being taken in delicate security situations, particularly where such disclosures could compromise ongoing operations.

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The commissioner added that the focus should indeed be on the federal government and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who are responsible for national security, particularly on the actions taken within the first 72 hours of the incident.

The commissioner recalled that Governor Makinde had last week appealed to Mr President to expedite action on the abducted 40 Borno students, who were kidnapped on May 15, the same day the students and teachers of Esinele and Yawota in Oriire local government area of Oyo state were abducted.

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He assured that the Oyo state government would continue to work with the Imo state government, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders towards the safe return of the abducted corps members.

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