Aiyedatiwa’s red beret insignia: We’re no longer safe – Ondo residents

Following the adoption of red beret as an insignia by the supporters of the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, some residents of the state have been raising the alarm on their safety.

Thefrontrank reports that supporters of the governor, under the aegis of Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation Foot Soldiers (LACO-FS), have been wearing red berets as their symbol.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, while inaugurating the group was seen putting on the beret, which has been described by many residents of the state as a symbol of cultism.

Thefrontrank reports that the development has been creating fear in the minds of residents and causing stir in the social media space with some people stating that such a move would further embolden cultists in their activities across the state.

Some residents noted that cultists can use the opportunity to perpetrate crime in the state by disguising as supporters of the governor.

The residents appealed to President Bola Tinubu to call Governor Aiyedatiwa and Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation Foot Soldiers (LACO-FS) to order so that they can continue to enjoy peace as it used to be during the administration of the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

Speaking on the development, an indigene of the state, Laguna Adeola, said: “It’s an ugly development in Ondo state.”

Also reacting, Toby @officialtamtv on his X(formerlyTwitter) handle wrote, “It is no longer appealing and peace threatening that the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa is encouraging other aspirants to use their own confra during their campaign.

“The governor has been reportedly seen with his Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organization (LACO).

“The peace of the good people of Ondo State is threatened, as people don’t longer feel safe to go about their daily business because of the fear of violence and loss of life and property. This act is very absurd in a democratic system of government where the lives and property of the citizens should be government top most priority.

“I’m calling on @officialABAT and all security agencies to please look into this issue as a matter of urgency so that our people do not continue to live in fear.

“The governor should be an ambassador of peace and should not create fear or panic for the people he’s ruling.

“Without the people, there’s no government and the people should be given a sense of protection and security rather than being frightened during broad day light.”

For Oluwagbega Ajongbolo, a public affairs analyst, “What exactly are Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his supporters bringing into Ondo State with their berets? What’s the idea and ideology behind donning red berets on the streets of Akure and Akoko? What’s the socioeconomic belief of a typical Aiyedatiwa supporter? What does Aiyedatiwa stand for?

“If this is not about their economic and political beliefs, should we be scared that a set of people, led by Mr Governor, have now adopted a style of clothing that has significant meaning and messages it is passing across? Are we safe in Ondo State?”

On her part, Abigeal @adeosunabigeal1 said: “One major fact that distinguishes Ondo State is that the State is a very Peaceful State if not the most peaceful in Nigeria. Our Governor, Please don’t take away the peace we’re enjoying in this state because of power…This Red Beret sends a very red flag.”

In his comments, Bashman@BashoruQ2772624 said: “It’s disheartening seeing our supposed leader, a man who is yet to be adorning fully, the mandate of the people is here displaying what he has to offer. I think Ondo deserves better. RIP to late Aketi.”

Also reacting, Omoduni Olamide said: “We need more people to also speak out. Just last week, this set of guys with the red beret alighted from a sienna car. The fear of unknown made the residents to run for their lives. Ondo State is peaceful, say no to cultism and violence.”

“This is just the bitter truth, Ondo State is no longer safe,” Ogbeni Oluwaseun Bamigbola said.

Efforts to get the reaction of the State Director of Information of LACO-FS, Kayode Fasua, were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone line were not connecting.