Over 40 lives have been reportedly lost as Youths in Ondo Kingdom trooped out in large numbers to stage a peaceful protest, calling for an end to the rising spate of cultism, drug abuse, and violence in the community.
The rally, held in response to recent cult-related killings, was led by the President of the Ondo Kingdom Youth Forum, Engr. Kayode Folayegun.
He emphasized the importance of justice and urged authorities to ensure that those responsible for the killings are brought to book.
“We can no longer fold our arms while our youths are being murdered. There must be consequences for anyone found guilty of such heinous acts,” Folayegun said.
Also speaking at the event, a youth leader, Mr. Olaitan Ayoola Aseyege, condemned the spate of killings, which he said had claimed over 40 young lives in recent weeks.
He appealed to the government and security agencies to intervene urgently and restore peace to the area.
He added, “What we’re witnessing is heartbreaking. Our youth are being targeted and gunned down. This has to stop, and we need the intervention of government and law.”
Community elder and activist, Hon. Comrade Joseph Iranla Akinlaja while addressing the youth, lauded their courage and urged them to remain committed to the ideals of peace, unity, and development.
He encouraged them to make informed choices and avoid being lured into criminality.
Akinlaja a two term member of the house of representatives, charged the youth to remain focused on peaceful, purposeful development and to avoid being used as tools for violence.
He added “Peace and progress must be our collective pursuit. Every young person here has a role to play in building a better, safer community..
“You must channel your energy towards useful ventures, you must all work collectively for the development of our kingdom. Cultism, Land grabbing and mindless killing must be shunned by all of you.
The rally concluded with a solemn tribute to the 48 victims allegedly killed by cultists. The youths pledged to support efforts to identify and expose the perpetrators while working together to restore order and safety in Ondo Kingdom.
