Police charged on kidnapping upsurge in Osun

By Fisayo Akinduro
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Alarmed by the upsurge of kidnapping, Nigeria Police have been charged to take necessary steps to curb the renewed spate of criminal activities in Osun state.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Olasiji Olamiju, who disclosed this at Esa-Oke said that over five kidnap cases involving about twenty victims have been reported within Ijesa North Federal Constituency of the state.

Olamiju who contested for the House of Representatives in the last Presidential and National Assembly elections for Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, noted that there is no doubt that Osun state is known to be a peaceful and crime free state.

“Kidnapping has become a national issue and it is very unfortunate that Osun state has become the kidnappers’ den and that is a cause for worry.

“Road users who travel through Iwaraja and Ilesa/Akure receive a lot of attacks that has become very worrisome. It is getting scary and soon, we will not be able to travel without seeking some form of help from the security agencies. And I know that there is not enough manpower to be able to provide protection for all travellers.”

Olamiju said just  last week, two FRSC marshals were kidnapped at Erin-Ijesa area of Akure/Ilesa highway, while a traditional chief and one other were kidnapped along Esa-Odo and Ilare road.

“I spoke with the Commissioner of Police and a lot is being done. But I believe that there is the need to involve our local hunters and vigilante  groups so as to ensure quick release of the victims and for us to be able to find solutions to this particular crime.”

While stressing the need for police to open security posts along the expressway and strategic places within the state, he advised the people to remain vigilant and report strange gatherings or people in their community to security agents.