Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has described the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area as a moment of national distress that requires unity and collective resolve rather than political opportunism.
The Governor stressed that the focus of all Nigerians must remain on the safe rescue and return of the victims, urging leaders and citizens alike to avoid turning the tragic incident into a political battleground.“This is a time of national distress. It is not the time to trade blame.
It is not the time to play politics,” Governor Makinde stated. “This is not the time for us to say it is the President that should have handled this, or it is the Governor, or the local government. This is a time to pull together as one.
The statement comes after the kidnapping of scores of pupils and teachers from schools in communities within Oriire LGA. Security agencies, in collaboration with the state government, have intensified efforts towards their safe release.
Governor Makinde, who visited affected families and communities, expressed deep concern over the incident and assured residents that the Oyo State Government is deploying all available resources and working closely with federal authorities to secure the victims’ freedom.The Governor further appealed for calm, vigilance, and full cooperation from the public to support ongoing security operations.
The Oyo State Government remains committed to the safe return of all abducted individuals and continues to coordinate efforts round the clock with all relevant stakeholders.