Ibadan violence: We need to sustain our values and enviable virtues by remaining law abiding – Rotimi Akeredolu
We note with deep concern, the most unfortunate and avoidable orgy of violence in Shasha, Ibadan, Oyo State.
As Governor of Ondo State who doubles as Chairman, South West Governor’s Forum, it has become very compelling for me to address ALL RESIDENTS, in particular, the Yoruba speaking people of our Region as regards recent happenings bordering on security.
We have been known for thoroughness. We have identified with legality over the centuries; our ethos as a civilised breed of people are such that we do not identify with lawlessness, not even illegality. We do not support violence and in particular, brigandage, jungle justice and unnecessary self-help.
In this regard, we urge all indigenes of the Southwest to sustain these values and enviable virtues by remaining law abiding. Our resolve in this direction is not a sign of weakness; it is indeed, the strongest of all.
In particular, while I understand the height of provocation in the light of recent happenings as regards Shasha, Ibadan, I, alongside my other brother Governors in the Region are against willful appropriation of Laws unto hands.
We note with delight, the efforts of our brother Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who has taken very bold steps to stave off further escalation of the violence by imposing curfew in the affected areas.
He deserves every support in his avowed commitment towards peace and security in Oyo State. We shall all survive these times and live peacefully, once again in our lands. God bless you all.
Rotimi Akeredolu is the governor of Ondo State and Chairman of the Southwest Governors Forum.
