Oyo State officials participated in a special prayer ceremony organised by the Ibadan Labala Masquerades Group on Friday. The event aimed to secure the safe release of kidnapping victims from Oriire Local Government Area.
The gathering took place at Labala Shrine in Labo, Ibadan. President of the Labala Masquerades Group Worldwide, Ojeyemi Ajayi, approved the spiritual exercise.
According to organisers, traditional prayers and sacrifices were offered for the abductees' return. Peace and security in the state were also central to their intercession.
Kunle Agboola represented the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism at the ceremony. As General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, he praised the masquerades' compassion and patriotism.
Agboola noted that many groups had organised prayers since the abductions occurred. But this initiative stood out for its unique spiritual approach, he said.
"Thank you for partnering with the government in this challenging moment," Agboola told the gathering. "Your efforts will not be in vain."
He expressed confidence that the prayers would yield results. "We believe the abductees will soon reunite with their families," he added.
Speaking for the masquerades group was Oosakola Oladejo, the Balogun Baale Labala of Ibadan and Oyo State. He revealed that a private sacrifice had already been conducted for the victims.
Oladejo explained the prayer walk's purpose in simple terms. It sought divine protection for the abductees and an end to kidnapping nationwide.
Otun Balogun Baale Labala of Ibadan and Oyo State, Ojediran Olalekan, led prayers alongside other spiritual leaders. Their invocations formed the core of the day's activities.
After ceremonies at the shrine concluded, participants embarked on a prayer march through Ibadan. The route covered several major locations including Labo Oranyan area and Wesley College.
Marchers proceeded through Oba Asanke Street and Idi-Aro Junction before returning to the shrine. The demonstration of solidarity lasted several hours.
Governor Seyi Makinde's administration has backed efforts to resolve the kidnapping crisis. State officials have intensified security operations in affected areas recently.
Insecurity remains a major challenge across Oyo State and Nigeria. Community and religious groups continue organising collective prayers for peace.
