By Precious Ojo, Ibadan.

A gender equality advocate and 2027 APC Aspirant for Oyo State House of Assembly, Egbeda Constituency, Hon. Temitope Olawoyin, has described the abduction of over 15 young Nigerians travelling from Samonda-Ibadan to Imo State as “shocking and heartbreaking”.

In a sympathy message issued by her media aide, Olawale Kunle, on Sunday, Hon. Olawoyin said she shares in the pains of parents whose children left home to serve their fatherland under the National Youth Service Corps.

She recalled the sacrifices parents make from birth through education in a country like Nigeria, saying the pains are too heavy to bear.

Olawoyin commended security agencies for the swift rescue of 10 of the victims and urged intensified efforts to secure the safe and unhurt release of those still in captivity.

” The report by the Police DIGs about location of the kidnappers and their victims now ease our heart. However, the IEDs citing grip us with fear. We know the security will succeed as they did during the Oriire Abduction about five months ago in Ogbomosho area of Oyo State “, she said.

The public administration expert urged parents of the remaining victims to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies. She also advocated for the swift implementation of State Police to enhance collaborative security across the country.

Olawoyin condemned social vices including kidnapping, ritualism, corruption and other crimes. She called on subnational governments to create jobs for youths to curb criminality, and urged parents and religious leaders to speak against the celebration of quick wealth in society.

She prayed for God’s strength for security agencies and called on the public to remain vigilant for personal safety.