Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde has come out to blast the killings that happened in Ogbomoso during last weekend’s EndSARS protest embarked upon by some youths in the state.

He revealed this in a statewide broadcast today, and Oyo residents have been reacting.

According to him, the unwarranted killing of innocent citizens of the state is uncalled for and it causes unnecessary pain and frustration for the parents and families of those who have died or are hospitalised.

He added that he has held an emergency meeting with the heads of the main security agencies in Oyo State and there is an agreement for the police to take a back seat as other security agencies take the frontlines in securing the lives of protesters at this time.

His words, “My dear good people of Oyo State, the past few days have been ones of grief for the people of Oyo State.

“I cannot imagine the pain and frustration of the parents and families of those who have died or are hospitalised as a result of the actions of the Nigeria Police Force during these EndSARS protests.

“As I stated clearly in my earlier statement, peaceful protests are a legitimate way for citizens to make their grievances known to the government and it is totally unacceptable for anyone to be hurt during such protests.

“Last night, I held an emergency meeting with the heads of the main security agencies in Oyo State. I have again restated my position on the ongoing protests to them.”

“We have agreed that the police should take a back seat as other security agencies take the frontlines in securing the lives of protesters, at this time.”

“Therefore, we have deployed members of Operation Burst to the hot spots, especially Ogbomoso, to ensure that as people protest, they will not be harassed or brutalised.

“I want to reassure the good people of Oyo State that I am doing everything within my power to ensure that no further lives are lost.

“I urge all residents of Oyo State to go about their activities without fear.”