“Kidnapping Must Never Become Our New Normal” — Asiwaju Olusoji Condemns Ayegunle Bunu Abduction, Demands Swift Security Action

• Prominent Kogi Leader Declares Citizens’ Lives Non-Negotiable, Calls for Immediate Rescue of Victims and Stronger Security Presence Across Bunu Land

Asiwaju Prince Dr. Olatunji Olusoji has strongly condemned the recent kidnapping incident in Ayegunle Bunu, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, describing the attack as a criminal assault on the peace, security, and collective wellbeing of the people.

In a strongly worded statement issued following reports of the abduction, the respected community leader expressed deep concern over the growing wave of insecurity confronting communities across the state, insisting that innocent citizens should not be subjected to fear and uncertainty in their own homeland.

According to him, the kidnapping of innocent residents is not only inhumane but also a direct challenge to the authority of the state and the sanctity of human life.

“I strongly condemn the kidnapping incident reported today in Ayegunle Bunu, Kogi State. The act of abducting innocent citizens is criminal, inhumane, and a direct attack on the peace and safety of our communities,” he stated.

Asiwaju Olusoji lamented the increasing threats posed by criminal elements and stressed that no society can thrive where citizens live in constant fear of violence and abduction.

“No family should go to bed in fear. No community should live under the threat of gunmen. The people of Ayegunle Bunu deserve to go about their daily lives without fear of violence,” he declared.

The prominent Kogi figure called on security agencies, including the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups, to launch immediate and coordinated operations aimed at rescuing the victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

He emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government and urged authorities at all levels to rise to the challenge.

Olusoji further called on the Federal Government, Kogi State Government, and local authorities to provide adequate support to the affected families while strengthening security architecture across Bunu District and neighbouring communities to prevent future occurrences.

He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence that could aid ongoing efforts to combat criminality.

“Community members must remain vigilant and share useful information with security agencies. Silence only emboldens criminals,” he warned.

In one of the strongest remarks contained in the statement, Asiwaju Olusoji insisted that society must resist any attempt to normalize kidnapping and other violent crimes.

“We must not normalize kidnapping. The lives and freedom of our people are non-negotiable. I stand with the families of the victims and pray for their safe return,” he affirmed.

He concluded by expressing hope for lasting peace and improved security across Kogi State, praying for the safe release of all those in captivity and renewed efforts to restore public confidence in the safety of communities.

The condemnation comes amid growing concerns over rising insecurity in parts of Kogi State, with residents increasingly calling for decisive measures to confront criminal activities and safeguard lives and livelihoods.

“May Kogi State know peace again,” the statement concluded.