The governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in a statement issued to address the clash between Hausa and Yoruba at shasha, has condemned the act of taking laws into one’s hand as that will frustrate the efforts of the state government in restoring peace and security.
He said this in a statement signed by him yesterday, 13th of February, 2021. He urged residents to continue to be law abiding citizens as that is one of the core values they are known for.
“We note with deep concern, the most unfortunate and avoidable orgy of violence in Shasha, Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital.
“As Governor of Ondo State who doubles as Chairman, South West Governors’ Forum, it becomes very compelling for me to address all residents in particular, the Yoruba speaking people of our dear region as regards recent happenings bordering on security.
“Without a doubt, the situation we have found ourselves as a people is most despicable and contends violently against, and abhorrently at variance with the values and hospitality for which our people are known.
“We have been known for thoroughness. We have identified with legality over the centuries; and our ethos as a civilised breed of people are such that we do not identity with lawlessness, not even illegality.
“In this regard, we urge all indigenes of the South West to sustain these values and enviable virtues by remaining law abiding. Our resolves 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 brothers (Governors) in the region are against willful appropriation of Laws unto hands. We do not support violence and in particular, brigandage, jungle justice and unnecessary self-help.
“We note with delight, the efforts of our brother Governor, Engr 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, he concluded.
