The session took place at the Labala shrine in Labo, Ibadan, where traditional rites and prayers were conducted for the victims’ safe return and for improved security across the state. The initiative, approved by the leadership of the Ibadan Labala Masquerades Group Worldwide, brought together cultural practitioners and government representatives in a coordinated appeal for resolution of the incident.
Representing the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, the General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Kunle Agboola, described the group’s involvement as a civic contribution to ongoing efforts to secure the release of the abductees. He said the state values collaboration from all sectors as authorities continue to respond to insecurity concerns.
He added that sustained engagement across communities remained necessary, expressing optimism that efforts from different groups would contribute to the safe return of those abducted.
Speaking for the group, Chief Oosakola Oladejo, Balogun Baale of the Ibadan Labala Masquerades Group, said earlier rituals had been performed for the victims. He explained that the prayer walk was organised to extend intercession beyond the shrine and to seek broader protection against kidnapping and violent crime.
Following the ceremony, participants proceeded on a procession through parts of Ibadan, moving from the shrine in Labo through Oranyan, Wesley College axis, Oba Asanke Street and Idi-Aro Junction before returning to the starting point.
In a related development, the Oyo State House of Assembly called for strengthened security operations in parts of the Oke-Ogun axis following renewed attacks along key transport routes.
The resolution was adopted during plenary after a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by lawmakers representing Irepo/Olorunsogo and Orelope constituencies. Members raised concern over repeated incidents along the Kishi–Igbeti and Igboho–Igbeti roads.
They referenced recent attacks between 3 and 9 June, alongside the killing of a staff member of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company during an ambush on 12 June along the Kishi–Igbeti corridor. Several other commuters were injured in subsequent incidents on nearby routes.
Lawmakers linked the recurring violence to activity around forest corridors connected to the Old Oyo National Park, noting that the terrain has become increasingly difficult to monitor.
While commending the Police, the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilante groups and hunters for ongoing operations, the Assembly urged the state government to expand logistical support to local security structures in Irepo, Olorunsogo and Orelope Local Government Areas.
It also called for additional patrols, new security checkpoints and targeted clearance of thick vegetation along the Kishi–Igbeti, Igboho–Kishi and adjoining routes to reduce cover for armed groups.
The House further directed its committees on Security and Strategy, Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, and Environment to conduct oversight visits to affected corridors and engage security agencies, local councils and community stakeholders on coordinated responses.
The lawmakers also appealed for stronger intelligence sharing between residents and security agencies as part of efforts to contain further attacks across the region.
