By Bolaji Okunola
A non-governmental group, Owo is One Association (OIOA), has lauded stakeholders in the community’s traditional institution for the arrest of suspected gunmen who massacred scores of worshipers at Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo Stateon Sunday, June 5 2022.
The group known for promoting peace and unity among indigenes, disclosed this via a statement signed by its national coordinator, Akinboro Aruwajoye. Expressing delight at the apprehension of the alleged murderers, the group applauded traditional the institution for giving maximum support capable of fishing out the perpetrators. The body further urged the government to initiate a better rapport between the traditional institution and security organisation in the state.
The statement reads: “We could see that sacrifices and atonements were made by our traditionalists, while grassroots networks were deployed to fret out useful information.
The effort of Kabiyesi Olowo of Owo, Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III was also visibly seen during the period. And we thank God that all these efforts were not in vain as the masterminds of the attack are gradually being apprehended.
“While thanking our security agencies on the side of the government, we also gave kudos to our traditionalists for their spiritual efforts to ensure that we get to where we are today. We also appreciate traditional titleholders in the society.
“We want more recognition to be given to traditional institutions and we will be glad seeing the government welcoming a strong synergy between the institution and security organization in order to checkmate evil perpetrators in the state.”