By Omowumi Hannah, Ibadan

A candidate for Ogbomosho North under the African Democratic Congress for Oyo State House of Assembly Election in 2027, Hon. Akinwale Oke-Mountain, has called for urgent rescue of over 30 persons abducted 28 days ago in Oriire Local Government Area.

The victims, mostly pupils and teachers from government and private schools in Esinele and Yawota communities, were kidnapped on May 15 when gunmen attacked schools in the area.

In his June 12 media engagement on Friday, Hon. Oke-Mountain, a Nigerian-UK engineer said successful rescue operations would restore public confidence in government.

“Rescuing these victims will bring back total joy and confidence of the people in government,” he said.

The aspiring lawmaker lauded efforts by security operatives over the last 28 days but urged Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to intensify the rescue mission despite challenges posed by the 1,000 square kilometres forest cover used by abductors.

Citing President Bola Tinubu’s June 12 broadcast, he said: “Criticise me, disagree with me. But never stop believing in Nigeria. Government must now prove that belief is not misplaced.”

Oke-Mountain urged affected families to remain patient and provide security agencies with useful intelligence to aid rescue efforts.