CRIN Abduction: ‘Stop Toying With Our Lives,’ Mogaji Alawode Challenges Makinde Over Oyo Insecurity

A prominent youth leader and Mogaji of Ibadanland, Chief Rahmon Akintunde Alawode, has condemned the reported abduction of three staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State, calling on Governor Seyi Makinde to take urgent and concrete measures to address insecurity across the state.

The abduction reportedly occurred while the victims were inspecting crops on a farm within the institute’s premises. The incident was confirmed by the Oyo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer.

Reacting to the development, Alawode expressed concern over the safety of residents, workers and farmers, stressing that the protection of lives and property must remain the primary responsibility of government.

“Stop toying with our lives. The people of Oyo State deserve to live, work and conduct their legitimate activities without the constant fear of being kidnapped. How can workers carry out their official duties within an institutional environment and still become victims of abduction?” he queried.

The Ibadan traditional titleholder called on Governor Makinde to implement urgent and measurable security interventions, arguing that the growing concerns over kidnapping require the full attention of the state government.

He also questioned the administration’s priorities amid the Governor’s reported presidential ambition, insisting that the security of residents must not be overshadowed by political considerations.

According to Alawode, the recurring concerns over kidnapping and public safety have raised questions that the state government must address through decisive action and accountability.

“The Governor must be prepared to answer difficult questions about the security situation in Oyo State and demonstrate, with concrete actions, that protecting the people remains his highest priority,” he stated.

Alawode urged the state government to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve coordination among security agencies, enhance surveillance around vulnerable communities and institutional facilities, and ensure that those responsible for criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.

He further called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the three abducted CRIN staff members and provide appropriate support to their families and colleagues.

The youth leader maintained that the government must move beyond routine assurances and introduce clear, measurable and sustained measures capable of restoring public confidence.

“The people are tired of hearing promises while fear continues to disrupt their daily lives. Farmers, researchers, traders, students and other hardworking residents deserve a secure environment. Oyo State cannot afford to treat the safety of its citizens as a secondary concern,” he added.

Alawode reiterated that residents should be able to carry out their legitimate activities without fear of abduction, urging Governor Makinde to make security a central priority of his administration.

He concluded that protecting lives and property remains a fundamental responsibility of government, calling for accountability, decisive action and lasting solutions to insecurity in Oyo State.