Adaba FM, a prominent radio station based in Akure, Ondo State, has expressed solidarity with schoolchildren and teachers recently kidnapped in Oyo State. During the second edition of its children’s festive orientation programme, the station underscored the urgent need for collective action to address insecurity and banditry.
General Manager Calls for Vigilance
The General Manager of Adaba FM, Martins Ayoola, stressed that insecurity and banditry require collaborative efforts from both the government and citizens. Speaking at the event held at Ojaja Hall in Akure, which drew participants from 20 schools across the state, Ayoola urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and share useful information with security agencies. He emphasized the importance of equipping pupils with education and safety skills.
Activities and Highlights
The festival featured a variety of activities, including spelling bees, debate contests, musical performances, cultural displays, dance presentations, and dedicated orientation talks focusing on child development and personal security. Ayoola stated, “One of the things we are doing is part of our social responsibility, at least to give back to society. We have chosen to make children the focus of attention because these little children need encouragement in society. Banditry is not something that can be wiped out immediately. The government needs the support of everybody by providing information and reporting every strange fellow around us.”
Superboy Outreach Founder Commends Initiative
Taiwo Eniola, founder of Superboy Outreach, described the festival as impactful and commendable. He said, “This is awesome, very good and unique. The fact that schools are involved and it is free makes it more commendable.” Eniola called for improved security measures in schools, especially boarding institutions, following cases of student kidnappings in some parts of the country. He added, “We cannot leave it to the government alone. PTAs, alumni associations and school owners must come together and put adequate security in place because these children are our future.”
