From Peter Dada
Bishop Emmanuel Badejo of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo has faulted the demolition of the building where an alleged group of agitators called `Yoruba Nation’ announced its takeover of the state from the legitimate government Gov. Seyi Makinde.
Badejo gave the condemnation during his Eastertide Press Conference at the Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Cathedral, Oyo Town.
He said the demolition of the property indicated a lack of respect for the rule of law.
“We frowned at the demolition of the property where the group allegedly made the declaration.
“Whatever happened to the `Rule of Law’ and the educational and historical values, which such an edifice could serve, even if the owner is found guilty after prosecution,” he said.
He said the church expected the government to prosecute the suspects in both incidents according to the Rule of Law.
The Prelate also commented on the massive explosion that caused loss of lives and destruction in the Bodija on the night of Tuesday, Jan. 16.
He commended security agencies and Gov. Makinde’s quick response to the explosion.
Badejo also lauded the administration for the bold steps taken to achieve relative security and peace in the state, especially by equipping the State Security outfits, particularly, the Amotekun Corps.
He said the government should do more in the area of surveillance and security of lives and property.
“Kidnapping for ransom and killings persist, especially in the Oke Ogun area, even up until three days ago.
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“Thankfully, security operatives have reportedly rescued the victim of the latest kidnapping around Lanlate area.
“Such occurrences threaten to rubbish the good work of government if not urgently curbed,” he said.
He implored the state government to ensure that the abductors and murderers of one Mr Irenaeus Ogunbayo around Iwere Ile in Iwajowa Local Government recently be brought to book.
He said the church is ready to collaborate with the state government to build a better society.
Badejo recalled that the Church had done this for centuries, investing in educational programmes, healthcare services and other social services.
He said that the church would do to support people in need.
The prelate urged the government to treat those organisations and individuals who had ventured into education as partners in progress.
“The government should support them while setting standards and rules for their operations in that regard.”
Badejo also reiterated the call for the return of Catholic schools taken over by the state in the 1970s.
“This will effectively widen the reach of missionary service, restore ethics in our educational system and check delinquency and moral degradation,’’ he said.
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