The leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ibadan Branch, and its entire members join other well-meaning Nigerians to condemn, unequivocally, the savagery visited by some criminals on the quiet community of Orire in Ogbomoso, of Oyo State. It is heart-wrenching to rehash the gory details in the yet-to-be foreclosed tragedy which befell teachers and their pupils in the hands of these marauders. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.
The NBA would like to register deep displeasure at the seeming tardiness associated with the government rescue mission since this unfortunate incident occurred for over ten days now. It is reasonable to expect that this latest assault on civility will be confronted headlong. The deafening silence attending the activities aimed at liberating the captives does not inspire hope. We shudder to imagine the horrible experiences to which the victims are being subjected at the moment.
While it may be strategic to keep from public scrutiny specific details concerning the tactics being adopted to bring foreclosure to this unfortunate incident, the characteristic silence of the government has been disquieting. This barbarism must not be allowed to have a foothold in an erstwhile peaceful environment. We must not allow this latest incident to be added to the consistently growing list of unresolved horrendous crimes, perpetrated against the hapless people of this country. The perpetrators of this attack and their sponsors must be unmasked.
The government at different levels must act in earnest to confront this menace. The State must rise above characteristic but ineffectual reactions to grave acts of barbarism which assail our sensibilities. This is not the time when functionaries of government present bland platitudes as reassurance. The good people of Oyo State anticipate an acceptable foreclosure to the current disruption of peace. They expect the return of the victims soon.
It is also pertinent to admonish the government of Oyo State to consider taking some proactive steps urgently with a view to protecting lives and property. The people will find self-help irresistible if criminals are allowed to take a stroll into their communities to perpetrate evil. The ease with which criminals attack communities and escape justice should be a source of great concern to us all.
This is not the time to allow partisan politics to compel complacent inaction, compromises and subterfuge. The Oyo State Government should take keen interest in the ceaseless influx of people into the State. The operations of commercial motorcyclists (Okada) must be regulated vigorously. Functionaries of government must see beyond revenue generation. A suspension of their operations for a stipulated period to ascertain the identity of the operators should be considered. The constant dumping of young people with no traceable links to residents of the State must be curbed, if we are to avert a looming danger. Forest reserves must be combed, thoroughly, to flush out all undesirable elements.
We call on both the Federal and Oyo State governments to expedite action in ensuring the safe return of the victims.
The welfare of the people is the primary reason for the existence of any government.
Ibrahim Lawal, Esq, MCIArb UK
Chairman, NBA, Ibadan Branch.
