Hijrah 1448AH: Gbolarumi Rallies for Peace, Demands Freedom for Oriire Abductees

By Seyifunmi Odunuga 

​ As Muslims across Nigeria observe the commencement of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1448AH, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi, has issued a powerful clarion call for a collective national rally for peace and spiritual rejuvenation.

​In a landmark statement released to the media to mark the occasion, Gbolarumi urged Nigerians to embrace the new lunar year as a moment of profound reflection. He emphasized that the timeless values of the Hijrah—sacrifice, courage, and the migration from adversity to a sanctuary of prosperity—must serve as the definitive blueprint for overcoming the nation’s current security hurdles.

​At the heart of his message was a heartfelt expression of anguish regarding the prolonged captivity of pupils and teachers recently abducted from the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Describing the ongoing ordeal as a "stain on the national conscience," the PDP flagbearer highlighted the human cost of insecurity that continues to disrupt the lives of innocent citizens.

​"The very essence of this sacred season is to move away from hardship and insecurity toward a place of stability and grace," Gbolarumi stated. "We cannot sincerely usher in a new year of progress while our children and educators remain in the clutches of kidnappers. Their immediate and safe release is a non-negotiable priority that demands our full attention."

​Gbolarumi, recognized for his proactive stance on grassroots security, challenged the state’s security architecture to pivot toward a more robust, intelligence-led, and tactical operation.

 He maintained that the government and security apparatus must harmonize their efforts to ensure the rule of law prevails, asserting that the crisis in Oriire requires urgent, decisive intervention rather than administrative rhetoric.

​Beyond the immediate security concerns, Gbolarumi extended an olive branch to stakeholders across the political divide, urging a departure from partisanship in the interest of public safety.

 He posited that the struggle against kidnapping and banditry is a non-partisan mandate that necessitates the unified cooperation of every well-meaning Nigerian.

​"We must collectively demand a safer environment where our people can thrive, free from the shadow of abduction," Gbolarumi added. "As we offer prayers for divine wisdom for our leaders and lasting peace for our nation this 1448AH, we must also match our spiritual commitment with a steadfast, unwavering resolve to secure our future and bring our people home."

​The governorship candidate concluded by reaffirming his personal commitment to the safety and well-being of all Oyo residents. He reiterated that his vision for the state remains firmly anchored in fostering an environment of total security, where development and prosperity can flourish without the looming threat of criminal syndicates.