Offa Robbery: Aregbesola Calls For Manhunt Of Perpetrators

By Ismaeel Uthman

Following the armed robbery attack that claimed many lives in Offa, Kwara State, the Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has described the incident as the worst in the history of the ancient town.

Aregbesola called on security agencies at various levels to beam their searchlights into the incident and launch thorough investigation to unravel the perpetrators.

He made the call at the weekend during a condolence visit to the Oloffa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Oloyede, at his palace, in Offa.

The governor described the attack as barbaric in the modern society, saying no effort must be spared to unravel the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

”According to him, what happened last week was very unfortunate, barbaric, saddening and uncalled for,  it was like what happened about 132 years ago in this town.

“I deemed it fit to be here in my capacity not only as a Governor but as a brother, friend and in-law to the people of Offa and Kwara State in general.

“It is on record that our people in Osun have had robust relationship and affection with the people of Offa, prompting us to be here in large number.

“I came here with members of my cabinet to sympathise with the good people of Offa and Kwara State, particularly the family of those that lost their lives to the unfortunate incident.

“The incident has once again challenged us on the need to tighten internal security and I am very sure that the perpetrators would not go unpunished.

“As Muslims, we believe that the incident was a God’s will and those that lost their lives have been destined to experience such as we pray God to grant the souls of the departed the best place in paradise and give their family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”, Aregbesola added.

The Governor who had earlier observed Jumat Service with Oba Muftau Gbadamosi at Offa Central Mosque, called on the people of the town to remain calm and go on their normal businesses as efforts are in top gear to forestall similar future occurrences.

He said the matter has been taken up by the appropriate security agencies, affirming that the perpetrators will soon be exposed and brought to justice in due course.

Aregbesola visited the attacked Police Divisional Headquarters, where he consoled the officers and men of Nigeria Police Force on the duty on the loss of their colleagues to the incident.

In his remarks, the Olofa of Offa, Oba Muftau Gbadamosi attributed the incident to God’s will.

Olofa noted that the family of the victims and the entire people of the town have taken consolation in God, noting that the ancient town is vastly religious.

The traditional ruler said: “What happened to us last week is considered as God’s will, that is why my subjects have been going on with their normal businesses.

“We are consoled by the fact that this incident will mark the beginning of success and blessing to us as we have been hearing good news from government at various levels to support the town in strengthening the security.

“Investigation is ongoing and we are rest assured that the bandits will be brought to justice in no distance time.”