OLÓTA OF OTA RALLIES COMMUNITY FOR PEACE, SECURITY AS RESIDENTS STAGE SOLIDARITY PROTEST AGAINST KIDNAPPINGS

The ancient town of Ota in Ogun State witnessed a remarkable display of unity, patriotism, and communal concern as hundreds of residents, parents, youths, market leaders, and concerned citizens converged on the palace of the Olota of Ota, His Royal Majesty, Professor Adeyemi AbdulKabir Obalanlege, Lanlege Ekun II, to register their concerns over the rising wave of insecurity and kidnappings across parts of Nigeria.
The peaceful protest, which drew sympathisers from different communities within Ota and its environs, was particularly inspired by the recent abduction of teachers, school children, and innocent citizens in Oyo State and other parts of the country. Carrying placards with inscriptions calling for improved security and protection of lives and property, the protesters appealed passionately to government authorities at all levels to intensify efforts toward tackling insecurity and restoring public confidence.
The protesters, who described the situation as heartbreaking and disturbing, said the growing fear among parents, students, and teachers necessitated their solidarity movement to the palace, which they acknowledged as a symbol of hope, leadership, and communal stability in Aworiland.
Addressing the crowd on behalf of the revered monarch, the Seriki of Ota Land, High Chief Olanrewaju Bashorun popularly known as Larrybash, calmed frayed nerves and assured the people that the traditional institution was deeply concerned about the security challenges confronting the nation.
The palace meeting was attended by the Divisional Police Officer of the newly established Ota Central Police Division, principal officers of the palace including Prince Adeyemi Sulaimon Olusesi, principal secretary to the monarch, members of the Olota-in-Council, and other respected chiefs and community stakeholders.
Speaking with passion and conviction, High Chief Olanrewaju Bashorun stated that the Olota of Ota had already initiated strategic consultations with traditional rulers and Baales across the kingdom, security agencies, Community development Associations to address security concerns and strengthen local vigilance within communities.
According to him, “Kabiyesi, Professor AbdulKabir Obalanlege, remains committed to the peace, security, and wellbeing of every resident within Ota and Aworiland. His Majesty has summoned traditional rulers and Baales across the kingdom for urgent deliberations on how communities can support ongoing security efforts and ensure that criminals find no hiding place within our domain.”
He further appealed to residents not to allow fear to overtake hope, assuring them that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was actively working on comprehensive measures to combat insecurity nationwide.
“Government is not folding its arms. The administration of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working tirelessly with security agencies to guarantee the safety of lives and property. Nigerians should continue to support lawful authorities and cooperate with security agencies. In a short while, the country will overcome these challenges,” he declared.
Chief Olanrewaju Bashorun also noted that the presence of the Divisional Police Officer of the newly created Ota Central Police Division at the palace gathering was itself a clear demonstration of government’s commitment toward strengthening grassroots security architecture and improving police-community relations.
He stressed that security should not be left to government alone, emphasizing that community participation, intelligence sharing, vigilance, and lawful conduct remained vital tools in the fight against criminality.
“The issue of security is everybody’s business. We must all be vigilant, law-abiding, and supportive of security agencies. Community cooperation is essential if we truly desire peace and stability,” he added.
The protesters, visibly encouraged by the royal intervention and warm reception at the palace, applauded the calming disposition of the Olota-in-Council and commended High Chief Olanrewaju Bashorun for his fatherly role, accessibility, and dedication to the progress of Ota community.
Many of the protesters also acknowledged the growing popularity and humanitarian gestures of Larrybash, especially following his emergence as a leading political figure recently endorsed to contest for the office as Member representing Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency.
Residents described the palace engagement as timely, reassuring, and symbolic of the enduring role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, unity, and social harmony in Nigeria.
The gathering eventually ended peacefully with prayers for the safety of the kidnapped victims, divine protection for security personnel, and renewed hope for a safer and more secure Nigeria.