Falae: OPC angry, issues ultimatum

The pan-Yoruba socio cultural group, Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) is seriously upset by the abduction of one time Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Chief Olu Falae by suspected Fulani herdsmen in Akure, Ondo State, yesterday.

The organisation has therefore warned that there is a need for the elder statesman to be returned to his family safe and unharmed.

Leaders of the two factions of the group, Dr. Frederick Fasehun and Otunba Gani Adams in separate statements on Tuesday stated that the act was an assault and insult on the Yoruba, as well as a crime against humanity.

Founder of the OPC, Dr. Frederick Fasehun, said security operatives must do everything within their reach to rescue the Octogenarian from his abductors within 48 hours.

Fasehun said “all lovers of Nigerian unity like OPC, communal peace and national progress must rise up to this challenge’.

He warned of possible consequence if Falae was not released or was harmed.

“At my turning 80, the entire world would expect me to be a bridge builder. And I have prepared myself to be just that. But if any missile is thrown at you, and it is likely to affect your eyeball, you must avoid it at all costs. This is my view of the insult now being unleashed, being flung at Nigeria by the enemies of Nigeria’s unity…

“When we heard that Falae was kidnapped we thought it was impossible, as kidnappers would not be mad enough to kidnap a man of peace, a man who has selflessly served Nigeria.

Fasehun also lamented that despite the fact that Falae served the country meritoriously, the Federal Government was yet to officially react to the incident.

“Over 24 hours after this disruption of the life of a dignitary, government has not issued any statement; rather what we hear is a loud silence from the Federal Government. It is a shame; it is a big shame,” he said.

Read also: Ex-SGF, Olu Falae kidnapped

On his part, national coordinator of the group, Otunba Gani Adams said “It is indeed a sad development that Chief Falae, aside from being prominent Yoruba son, was a minister of the federal republic of Nigeria.

His abduction is not only ungodly, but also a sin against humanity.

“For a man who lost a very promising son only two years ago to be abducted on his 77th birthday is a dastardly act that should be condemned by all peace-loving and reasonable Nigerians.

“The trend in which Fulani herdsmen would invade private farms in our land and vandalise it is gradually making a return.

“However, we would want it to be known that the attribute of Yoruba people to be accommodating is not something that should be abused.

“We would, however want to send a note of warning that the Federal Government should do all within its powers to ensure that Baba Falae is returned to his family safe and sound.

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