…….Coalition Of South East CSOs For Secured Nigeria
The recent nation shaking allegation by H.E. Ayo Fayose that the Seyi Makinde led Oyo State Government could have masterminded the kidnapping of schoolchildren are not only disturbing but also dangerous to public peace and security. Such claims, when made without credible evidence, have the potential to undermine public confidence in government institutions, mislead and distract security agencies from their primary responsibility of apprehending the real perpetrators of criminal acts which can be appraised as an act only an accomplice would take on if found to be without supporting evidence.
Kidnapping remains one of the most serious security challenges confronting the nation today and at a time when citizens are demanding stronger action against criminal elements, it will be irresponsible for such a should be respected or model leader to spread unverified accusations capable of inflaming tensions and creating unnecessary divisions within society just for political and selfish gains.
The security agencies must thoroughly investigate the H.E Ayo Fayose to determine whether allegations of Oyo State government kidnapping its citizens were deliberately fabricated to mislead the public and the security agencies.
In as much as freedom of expression is a fundamental right in a democratic society; however, that freedom does not extend to the deliberate dissemination of false information intended to damage other person’s or government institutions reputations or to obstruct justice and interfere in objective crime investigation.
31 days which approximates to four weeks and 3 days; we the Coalition of South East CSOs for Secured Nigeria
have waited patiently for H.E. Ayo Fayose to come foward with trackable evidence to back his allegations but rather he has gone silent. We say No to that, if left unattended to that will one out of many mischievous political and reckless allegations for political gains over the life of its citizens left uninvestigated. H.E. Ayo Fayose should be compelled by security agencies to provide credible evidence to support his claims against the Seyi Makinde led Oyo State Government.
In the instance that H.E. Ayo Fayose fails to provide evidence to support his allegations against a government of a State, appropriate legal actions should be instituted against him for spreading misinformation and being politically mischievous at the expense of the life of the Oyo citizens.
This should be a must do for the security agencies to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to exploit sensitive security issues for political, personal, or other selfish interests. It will also serve as a guide to direct public discourse surrounding security matters to revolve only on facts, responsibility, and respect for due process.
We call on all responsible stakeholders to stay focused; support efforts to rescue victims, and ensure justice for affected families.
The security agencies owe it to the public and the good people of Oyo State to hold H.E Ayo Fayose accountable in accordance with the law if he deliberately spread unfounded allegations against the good people and government of Oyo State.
