Acting Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, has reaffirmed the commitment of the current administration under Governor Seyi Makinde to safeguarding the state’s communities and ensuring that no individual is oppressed, regardless of ethnic background.
During a visit on Thursday to Gbenpakan Village in the Saki West Local Government Area, where a brutal attack occurred on Tuesday night targeting both Fulani settlers and Yoruba residents, Lawal emphasized that the Oyo State Government will not allow criminal activities to gain a foothold in the state.
Expressing deep sorrow over the destruction and loss of life caused by the unknown assailants, the Acting Governor assured the community that a thorough investigation is underway, and those responsible will face justice.
Lawal, who had earlier met with the Yoruba community after a roughly three-hour journey from Saki town to Gbenpakan Village, stated that the government’s focus is on combating criminals, not discriminating against any ethnic group.
Highlighting the administration’s commitment to the security of lives and property, he stressed that the government will deal decisively with anyone who disrupts peace in the state.
“The purpose of this visit is to assure our people that Nigeria is one, and everyone has the right to live peacefully and conduct their business without fear,” Lawal said.
He also met with the Fulani settlers, condemning the attack and promising that the state government will provide necessary relief materials to those affected. He reassured the victims’ families that such an incident would not happen again, as security forces are already conducting a thorough investigation.
“Two days ago, we lost lives due to a cowardly attack by criminal elements. This is not the kind of incident we want in Oyo State. We visited to offer our condolences and assure the community that this must never happen again,” Lawal said.
“The Commissioner of Police visited the area yesterday, confirming that criminals invaded this hamlet and committed this heinous act. Investigations are ongoing, but the message is clear: Oyo State will not tolerate crime or criminality in any form. Those responsible will face the full force of the law.”
Earlier, Alhaji Salaudeen Adebayo, the councilor representing Ward Four in Saki West Local Government, condemned the tragic incident as a needless loss of life. He urged the state government to bolster the area’s security, curb illegal land seizures, and ensure reliable telecommunications access.
The Acting Governor was accompanied by a delegation that included former Deputy Governor Alhaji Hamid Gbadamosi, Commissioner for Special Duties Alhaja Fausat Joke Sanni, Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperative Mr. Niyi Adebisi, Chairman of the Oyo State Pension Board Rafiu Adekunle, Chief Press Secretary Sulaiman Olanrewaju, and Saki West Local Government Chairman Mr. Akinola Gbenga.
Also present were the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Sunday Odukoya (Rtd), Director General of Operation Burst, Amotekun, and other security personnel.