Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Dr. Abd-Ganiy Adekunle Salaueen Oloogunebi Ajinese 1 has raised concern over reports of rise in cases of kidnapping in Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun areas of Oyo State.
The monarch said the federal government should step up efforts towards containing the act as according to him, it is becoming prevalent.
Oba Abd-Ganiy made the disclosure while praying for the country and Oyo State during the commencement of Oro festival on Saturday evening at his palace in Iseyin.
The age-long festival forbids women from sighting the Oro masquerade and will be celebrated in the seventh and 15th days after the day of commencement.
Aseyin said the flag-off of year 2020 Oro festival was used to pray for governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to achieve success in his strides as well as indigenes of Iseyin at home and those in diaspora.
“We have begun the traditional, ancient Oro festival as it was done before by our forefathers, we pray for good leadership, especially in Oyo State and specifically called for God’s guide and blessings for our governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde so that he will continue with his good works.
We also used the occasion to pray against those involved in social vices like kidnapping which has been reported to be incessant in Ibarapa and Oke-Ogun areas.
“We laid curse on those perpetrating the heinous act and also called on the federal government to quickly evolve solution against its spread to other areas of the State.
“Our children at home and abroad have seen the blessings of God and our ancestors have blessed our land to continue to see growth, all Iseyin Indigenes at home and abroad shall continue to see God’s hands in their endeavors,” he prayed.
Security men were seen at strategic points in the town during the commencement of the festival, directing traffic and assuring people of their safety.