Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has assured families of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area that his administration is doing everything possible to secure their safe release.
The governor gave the assurance on Saturday during a visit to the families of the victims at Ahoro-Esiele community, where he met with relatives, community leaders, and concerned residents affected by the incident.
An emotional moment occurred during the visit when Professor Wole Alamu, husband of the abducted school principal, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, broke down in tears while appealing to the governor to intensify efforts to rescue the victims.
Addressing the gathering, Makinde acknowledged the pain and anxiety being experienced by the affected families, noting that no words could fully ease their suffering. He, however, reassured them that security agencies were working tirelessly to bring the abductees home safely.
According to the governor, security meetings have been held twice daily since the abduction occurred, with constant coordination among relevant security agencies to ensure a successful rescue operation.
“Since this incident happened, I have been meeting with security agencies every day and monitoring developments closely. We will continue to push beyond every limit until all the abducted persons are safely returned to their families,” Makinde said.
The governor condemned the actions of the kidnappers, describing the abduction as cruel, inhumane, and completely unacceptable, regardless of any grievances the perpetrators may claim to have.
Makinde also paid tribute to members of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, for their sacrifices in combating crime across the state. He disclosed that nearly 200 operatives had lost their lives in the line of duty since the corps was established.
Other family members also appealed for urgent action. One of them, Aliu Saidi, urged the government and security agencies to do everything necessary to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Following his address to residents, the governor held a private meeting with parents and relatives of the victims, where he provided updates on ongoing rescue efforts and listened to their concerns.
The abduction has heightened fears among residents of the area, with many calling for stronger security measures and more decisive action to curb kidnapping activities along Oyo State’s border communities.
Community members expressed hope that the government’s intervention and the ongoing security operations would lead to the safe return of all those still in captivity.
