…….gives details of its response……
The Ekiti State House of Assembly has rejected claims that it remained silent over the kidnapping incident in Eda Oniyo community, saying it took immediate legislative action following the attack.
The Assembly made the clarification in Ado-Ekiti through the Chairman, House Committee on Media, Hon. Babatunde Lawrence Oke, while responding to allegations by an activist group, Action Group Renewal Organization (AGRO) Nigeria.
It was earlier reported that the group had accused the Assembly of failing to respond to the incident, a claim the legislature described as misleading.
The Assembly said the matter was taken at plenary on May 8, 2026, through an urgent motion sponsored by the member representing Ilejemeje Constituency, Hon. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieimen.
It said lawmakers condemned the attack, sympathised with victims and residents and passed resolutions calling for intensified security operations and collaboration with relevant agencies to secure the release of abducted persons.
The Assembly said an ad-hoc committee was immediately constituted after plenary to visit Eda Oniyo community and assess the situation.
The committee members include Hon. Tope Longe, Hon. Jacob Awoniyi, Hon. Abimbola Solanke, Hon. Babatunde Omotayo, Hon. Anthony Adaramodu and Hon. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieimen.
It said the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye, directed the committee to engage stakeholders and report back for further legislative action.
The Assembly said its committees on security have continued engagement with relevant security agencies since the incident.
It said monitoring of rescue operations has also been ongoing in collaboration with security institutions, while sensitive details are handled through official channels.
The Assembly also referenced existing security measures in the state, including restrictions on late-night worship in border communities and the use of the 112 emergency line for rapid response.
The Assembly said the claim that it remained silent does not reflect its actions. It stated:
“The Ekiti State House of Assembly did not remain silent on the Eda Oniyo kidnapping incident. The matter was debated at plenary, resolutions were passed, and a committee was immediately deployed to the community.”
It said legislative intervention on security matters includes oversight functions and coordination with security agencies, not only public statements.
The Assembly defended Hon. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieimen, saying she sponsored the motion that brought the matter before the House and participated in follow-up assignments, including committee work.
The Assembly urged the public and civil society groups to verify information before making public claims, warning that misinformation could mislead citizens and affect trust in institutions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to the security and welfare of residents of Ekiti State and said it will continue to support security agencies until normalcy is restored.
