Unknown gunmen kidnap six pupils, three teachers, and a bus driver from Apostolic Faith School, Eporo-Ekiti, in Ekiti state on Monday night. The state is reeling from the news, first reported by Ekititrends on its X account on Tuesday
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, responding with urgency and determination, said “We are deeply saddened by this callous act. Our priority is the safety of these children and their teachers.”
He further assured that “Security agencies are actively pursuing the kidnappers, and we are stepping up efforts across the state to ensure their safe return.”
The state government has not only condemned the kidnapping as unacceptable but has also implemented measures to increase security. “This is a time for vigilance and cooperation. We ask the citizens to remain calm and provide any relevant information to the authorities,” Governor Oyebanji urged.
In a swift reaction to the crisis, law enforcement agencies, including the police, have been mobilized to address the situation. Governor Oyebanji has pledged a comprehensive rescue operation, emphasizing the importance of the community’s support in these efforts.
Video of the school bus that was hijacked by kidnappers in Emure LG
Related News Unspecified numbers of School Children were kidnapped while going to Eporo Ekiti from Emure Ekiti in their school bus pic.twitter.com/X8hoB45sNl
— Ekiti trends (@ekititrends) January 30, 2024
This kidnapping incident occurs in the wake of another tragic event in Ekiti State. The Punch reported that two Ekiti State monarchs were killed by suspected kidnappers on the Ipao-Oke Ako Road. The deceased, Oba Olatunde Olusola of Imojo and Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin of Esun Ekiti, were returning from a function in Kogi State when attacked. Oba Adebayo Fatoba of Ara Ekiti narrowly escaped the ambush.
Michael Ogungbemi, Chairman of the Ajoni Local Council Development Area, confirmed the recovery of the monarchs’ bodies. “It’s a dark time for our community,” he remarked, highlighting the increasing concerns over safety in the region.
As the situation develops, Ekiti State stands united in its efforts to combat this surge in criminal activity and to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped individuals.
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