Makinde appeals for unity as Oyo residents protest over Oriire attack

By Adejayan Gbenga

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday appealed for unity and collective action in addressing the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in parts of the state, urging residents to avoid blame games and political divisions.

The governor spoke while addressing protesters who converged on the State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, to demand urgent intervention over the kidnapping of students and education workers. The demonstrators included members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, National Association of Nigerian Students, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, among other groups.

The protesters called on the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of the victims and strengthen security measures around schools and communities across the state to prevent future attacks.

Responding to their concerns, Makinde described the abduction as a deeply troubling incident that should not be politicised, stressing that all stakeholders must work together to confront the security challenge.

The governor said he was personally affected by the development, recalling that his father was a primary school teacher who taught in an area not far from where the abduction occurred.

According to him, the situation requires cooperation among all levels of government, security agencies and citizens, rather than arguments over who should bear responsibility for addressing the crisis.

Makinde assured the protesters that the state government was working closely with relevant authorities to secure the release of the abducted victims, urging students, teachers and workers to maintain confidence in the efforts being made.

He also condemned the attack and the actions of the perpetrators, describing them as inhumane and unacceptable. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, while assuring residents that every possible measure was being taken to ensure the safe return of the victims and improve security across the state.