As Nigeria commemorates the significance of June 12 Democracy Day, the Mass Communication Alumni of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree (MAOS), has called on the Federal Government to urgently evolve lasting solutions to the persistent cases of kidnapping, banditry and other forms of insecurity threatening the peace and stability of the country.

In a statement marking the historic day, MAOS National President, Comrade Adekunle Sikiru (Abacus) noted that while democracy has remained the preferred system of government, its dividends can only be meaningful when citizens are guaranteed safety and freedom.
The association through the National President expressed concern over the rising incidents of abductions and violent attacks across various parts of the country, stressing that insecurity has continued to inflict pains on countless families and undermine national development.

The Mass Communication Alumni of Ospolyiree sympathized with Nigerians whose loved ones are still being held in captivity by kidnappers and bandits. It expressed hope that through divine intervention and renewed efforts by security agencies, those in captivity would regain their freedom and reunite with their families.
Adekunle Sikiru also commended security personnel who have continued to make sacrifices in the defence of the nation, urging them not to relent in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities especially during this difficult time.

While celebrating the resilience of Nigerians and the gains of democratic governance since the June 12 struggle, MAOS appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen intelligence gathering, equip security agencies adequately and adopt practical measures capable of permanently addressing the menace of kidnapping and banditry.

According to the association, safeguarding lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of government at all levels.

The alumni body equally expressed concern over recent political clashes reported in Osogbo, Ile-Ife, Owode-Ede, Oriade and other parts of Osun State. It warned political parties and their supporters against playing politics with the lives of innocent citizens, noting that political ambitions should never supersede the sanctity of human lives and peaceful coexistence.

MAOS condemned all acts of violence and intimidation associated with political activities and appealed to leaders of political parties to educate their supporters on the need to embrace issue-based campaigns and democratic values. The association emphasized that Osun State has long been known for peace and should not be allowed to descend into avoidable crises due to partisan interests of individuals in the state.

The association further called on the Osun State Government and relevant security agencies to maintain law and order by deploying adequate security personnel to flashpoints across the state. It stressed that proactive security measures and continuous engagement among stakeholders are essential to preserving peace and protecting residents.

The Mass Communication Alumni of Osun State Polytechnic Iree (MAOS) reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible communication, peaceful coexistence and national unity, while urging Nigerians not to lose hope in the nation’s democratic journey. It maintained that with collective efforts, responsible leadership and divine guidance, Nigeria would overcome its present security challenges and attain the peace and prosperity envisioned by the heroes of democracy.

The Mass Communication Alumni of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree (MAOS) is a prestigious association established in year 2011 to unite graduates of the Department of Mass
Communication, Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, with the primary aim of fostering growth, development, and sustainable progress within our alma mater and beyond.
Over the last 15 years, MAOS has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to the
advancement of the department, the institution, and the welfare of its members globally.

We also have nine (9) active state chapters across Nigeria and four (4) international
chapters in the United States of America, United Kingdom, Canada, and the United Arab
Emirates.