Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has appealed to residents and families of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area to remain calm and avoid protests as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the victims.
The governor made the appeal on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held to celebrate the 60th birthday and retirement of the outgoing Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, at the Christ Apostolic Church in Ibadan.
Speaking during the event, Makinde acknowledged the growing fear and anxiety surrounding the abduction, describing the incident as painful and deeply troubling for the state. He, however, assured residents that security agencies were already working round the clock to track down the kidnappers and secure the safe return of the victims.
According to the governor, public protests at this critical stage could complicate rescue operations and unintentionally encourage the criminals responsible for the attack.
“Our reality is that bandits and terrorists are at our doorstep. I want to encourage the family members of the children and teachers who were kidnapped,” Makinde said.
“This is not the time for protests. Terrorists and bandits do not think like normal people. If they did, they would not be carrying out such acts. Protests at this moment may only fuel their ego. We are doing everything possible, and this is the time for all of us to work together rather than apportion blame,” he added.
The governor stressed that cooperation between the government, security agencies, community leaders, and residents would play a vital role in ensuring a successful outcome. He urged citizens to avoid spreading panic or misinformation that could undermine ongoing operations.
Makinde also highlighted the importance of spiritual support during difficult periods, calling on religious leaders and residents across the state to pray for the safety and quick release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He noted that insecurity had become a growing national challenge affecting many communities across the country, adding that state governments must continue collaborating with federal security agencies to tackle the menace of kidnapping and terrorism.
The abduction in Oriire Local Government Area has sparked concern among parents, education stakeholders, and residents, many of whom fear for the safety of schoolchildren in rural communities.
Incidents involving attacks on schools and abductions of students have become increasingly common in parts of Nigeria over the past few years, forcing authorities to rethink security arrangements around educational institutions.
Many parents have expressed frustration over the recurring incidents, while civil society organisations have called for stronger security measures to protect schools and vulnerable communities from armed groups.
Despite the tension surrounding the latest incident, the Oyo State Government maintains that security operatives are making progress and that every available resource is being deployed to ensure the victims are rescued unharmed.
Political observers noted that Makinde’s remarks reflected the delicate balance authorities often try to maintain during hostage situations reassuring the public while avoiding actions that could escalate tensions or endanger lives.
Religious leaders at the thanksgiving service also reportedly offered prayers for peace, security, and divine intervention in the ongoing rescue efforts.
As families continue to wait anxiously for positive news, residents across Oyo State have been urged to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and support efforts aimed at restoring safety and stability in affected communities.
