The Native Authority of Ago-Are Community in Atisbo Local Government Area of Oyo State has ordered the immediate closure of all commercial activities at the Kraal Market following the recent abduction of a resident, Mr. Joel Oke.
The closure, according to community leaders, is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing further security breaches and safeguarding lives and property while efforts are intensified to secure the victim’s release.
Concerned youths in the community have also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Oke, insisting that he should regain his freedom unharmed and without the payment of any ransom.
In a show of solidarity, the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Association and members of the Fulani community in the area endorsed the temporary shutdown of the market and pledged their full cooperation with community authorities until the victim is safely released.
The Native Authority urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, assuring them that concerted efforts are ongoing in collaboration with relevant stakeholders and security agencies to ensure Oke’s safe return and restore normalcy to the community.
The authority noted that Ago-Are has a long-standing reputation for peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic and social groups, stressing that the community remains committed to preserving that legacy through sustained efforts to promote peace, security, and unity.
The position was contained in a joint statement signed by members of the Aare-in-Council, the Chairman of Miyetti Allah in Oyo State, represented by Alhaji Idris; the Sarki Fulani/Bororo, Alhaji Abdullah; the Chairman of the Hausa Community, Alhaji Ado; and the Ago-Are Community Youth Leader, Mr. Emmanuel Olowookere.
The signatories unanimously called on residents to support ongoing initiatives aimed at securing the victim’s safe release and maintaining peace, harmony, and security within the community.