Oyo APC gov’rship aspirant Asanike condemns Ibadan, Ogbomoso kidnappings

By Olusesan Laoye

A governorship aspirant in Oyo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Musbau Asatola Asanike, has expressed deep shock over recent kidnapping incidents in Ibadan and Ogbomoso, describing them as a troubling reflection of worsening insecurity in the state.

Asanike specifically condemned the abduction of Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her two twin sons in Ibadan while they were reportedly on their way to school.

The victim, Mrs. Olaide, is said to be the younger sister of former Minister of Power and Energy, Chief Bayo Adelabu.

The APC chieftain, in a statement on Thursday, urged the Adelabu family to remain strong, noting that the incident highlights how insecurity has become indiscriminate, affecting families across social and political divides.

“The abduction is not just a personal tragedy for the Adelabu family, but a wound on the conscience of the entire state,” Asanike said.

He also lamented the earlier abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, expressing concern that the victims remain in captivity.

According to him, the continued detention of the abductees has left families in anguish and uncertainty.

“No child should learn in fear, and no parent should go to bed not knowing the fate of their child,” he said.

Asanike extended his condolences to Chief Bayo Adelabu and the entire Adelabu family, praying for the safe and swift return of Mrs. Olaide and her children.

He also sympathised with residents of Oriire Local Government Area, traditional rulers, parents and school authorities affected by the earlier attacks, commending their resilience in the face of the crisis.

The governorship aspirant called for stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies, urging residents to remain vigilant.

He further appealed to governments at all levels and security institutions to treat the rising wave of kidnappings as a national emergency and intensify efforts toward rescue operations and long-term security reforms.

“The silence of kidnappers must be met with the decisive voice of the state,” he said, urging urgent action to ensure the safety of schoolchildren and commuters across the state.