Those in captive needs help rather than blame game- Adelaja Bashir
The Kwara South Youth Congress wishes to express its deep concern regarding a press statement attributed to the appointed Public Relations Officer of the Offa Descendants’ Union (ODU), Taofeek Olalekan Olaosebikan. This statement, titled “ODU Responds to Article on Offa Petition to President Tinubu Published in Various National Dailies,” has drawn our attention due to its implications for the voices of the community and its representation.
It is disheartening to observe that the current leadership of the ODU has seemingly opted to suppress any dissenting voices that attempt to advocate for the interests of the citizens. This silencing appears to be driven by the political aspirations of certain members within the organization. To clarify, during our thorough investigation into the unfortunate case of the seven Offa travelers who were abducted, as previously detailed in our earlier press statement, we engaged directly with the families affected by this tragedy. It is imperative to note that Alhaji Adisa Abdulkareem, who took the initiative to petition President Tinubu regarding this issue, is not an anonymous figure; rather, he is a concerned citizen deeply affected by the ongoing crisis, having family members whose lives are endangered by the kidnappers.
Given this context, we urge the ODU leadership to exercise caution and reflect on the significance of the right to free speech, a principle enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Each individual has the inherent right to voice their concerns, especially during critical times. It is both inappropriate and disrespectful for the current ODU leadership to position themselves as the ultimate authority on who gets to speak for the community, particularly at a time of such distress. Their attempts to mute collective voices through representatives like Taofeek are alarming and counterproductive.
Moreover, it is concerning that despite acknowledging the valid points raised by The Indigenous People of Offa, Taofeek whom they have been writing for proceeded to depict the ODU as akin to a secret cult. This portrayal mirrors the dismissive attitude he adopted in response to the press statement issued by KYSC regarding the land crisis involving Elemona of Ilemona and the Offa people.
We believe it is essential for ODU leadership to learn from previous administration and the successful practices of neighboring community organizations such as the IEDPU , OPU, ADU, and others. These associations have effectively channeled their members’ collective voices towards fostering community development and progress. After all, the genesis of ODU was rooted in representing the interests and identities of every indigene of Offa. We call on the ODU leadership to embrace this spirit of unity and collaboration rather than division and censorship.
It’s inlprtant to also note that, the petitioner spoke the minds of an average Offarians who is in pain, If Taofeek or any one from the ODU has a wife among those in captive, will he continue to try to clamp down on every voices? this act is becoming irrational, it’s a time bom, time ticks.
Signed:
Adelaja Bashir
PRO, Kwara South Youth Congress
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