“Rise Up and Take Swift Action Now” David Olusegun Okanlawon charge the People
It is grievous to hear about the recent attack of suspected Fulani herdsmen on inhabitants of Igangan in Ibarapa North Local Government area of Oyo State.
I write to condemn the recent attack by suspected fulani herdsmen on the inhabitants of Igangan, Ibarapa North.
Yesterday, Saturday, 5th of June, 2021, was a night of horror, pain and disgust for the dwellers of Igangan who retired to their various homes. Having barely slept, they were woken up to the horrific sounds of indiscriminate shootings and scenes of arson. The inhabitants had to scamper for safety; they had to hide in the bush waiting in anguish for day to break.
In the early hours of today, Sunday, scenes of completely burnt houses, destroyed properties was seen and the most aching part was sight of dead bodies lying in the pool of their bloods.
Lives are no longer safe. People are not even demanding for more, but to at least be able to live. Yet, they are being denied this fundamental human right. As if the sudden hike in the price of food items is not enough, citizens now have to vacate their land just because some untamed, covertly supported blood-thirsty, land grabbing terrorists are freely roaming town, with tacit approval of both Federal and State government.
Despite our numerous security outfits comprising of the police, Amotekun, Agro Rangers, local vigilantes, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), and others, it is a shame that such dastardly acts can occur in our land. What then is the use of their parades, surveillance and so-called intelligence if this predicament could not be prevented?
I understand that the local security apparatus have been practically disengaged following the arrest and detainment of members of OPC, who arrested and handed notorious Fulani warlord, Wakili, to the police. Since the incident, local securities including local vigilante and OPC have limited their contributions to security matters. When arresting and handing over a criminal to the police becomes a crime, you know the stance of the police on criminality.
Governments, regardless of political parties and affiliations, need to rise at this very moment to our clarion call. Help us to arrest this situation which is already out of the control. Security must not be political, it must be neutral. Otherwise, the outcome of insecurity would not spare members of any party.
Rise up and take swift actions NOW
Engr. David Olusegun Okanlawon
Sunday, June 6, 2021.