February 25, 2026 | News | SUNTV Global Channel
The Take It Back Movement has strongly criticised the governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, over what it described as worsening insecurity across the state, accusing his administration of celebrating in the face of fear, killings, and kidnappings.
In a statement issued Wednesday in Akure and signed by its Ondo State Coordinator, Patrick Owolabi, the group expressed “grave concern” about what it called an alarming deterioration of security, warning that many communities have become centres of terror and abductions.
The movement faulted the state government for marking its first anniversary in office while residents continue to live under constant fear.
According to the statement, governance should focus on protecting lives rather than public celebrations.
“While citizens live in fear and uncertainty, it is deeply insensitive for the government to roll out drums in celebration. Governance is not propaganda but a sacred duty to ensure safety and stability,” the group stated.
Rising Attacks Cited
The group listed several recent violent incidents to support its claims.
It recalled that on February 18, 2026, suspected bandits reportedly invaded Agamọ Community in Akure North Local Government Area, killing a traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, inside his palace.
Days later, armed assailants struck again in Eleyeowo/Ilu-Abo axis, abducting a couple, Mr. Jamiu Olawale and his wife, while injuring a neighbour.
The movement also pointed to a fresh attack in which gunmen stormed a parish of the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, Owo Local Government Area, during an early-morning service and kidnapped several worshippers.
It described the incidents as part of a dangerous and growing pattern that has left residents traumatised and unable to sleep peacefully.
Demands To Government
The group held the state government and security agencies responsible for what it termed a failure of proactive security response.
It demanded that Governor Aiyedatiwa:
- Convene an urgent security summit involving traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and security agencies.
- Ensure the immediate rescue of all abducted persons across the state.
- Overhaul the security architecture with stronger deployment of personnel and intelligence to flashpoint areas.
Warning Of Civic Action
The statement stressed that citizens voted for safety and good governance, not “funerals and ransom negotiations.”
It warned that the movement may mobilise constitutionally recognised civic actions if urgent steps are not taken to address the insecurity crisis.
The group also pledged solidarity with victims and families affected by the recent wave of attacks.
