The Oyo State Government has taken part in a prayer session organised by the Ibadan Labala Masquerades Group, seeking the safe release of victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The event, held at the Labala shrine in the Labo area of Ibadan, was approved by the President of the group worldwide, Chief Ojeyemi Ajayi (Idunnu Ifa).
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government said its involvement was aimed at supporting efforts to secure the victims’ release and restore peace in the state.
“The essence is to offer traditional prayers and sacrifices on behalf of the state for the safe return of the abductees and the restoration of peace and security in the state under the leadership of Engr. ‘Seyi Makinde,” Oyelade said.
Officials from the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism’s office, including the General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr Kunle Agboola, also attended the event and praised the group’s initiative.
They noted that although several groups had organised prayers since the abduction incident, the masquerade group’s involvement reflected stronger community collaboration with government efforts.
The group’s representatives said earlier sacrifices had been made privately, while a prayer walk was also held across parts of Ibadan to seek divine intervention for the safe return of the victims.
The event featured prayers from traditional leaders and ended with a procession through selected streets in Ibadan before returning to the shrine.
