Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has assured parents and guardians of abducted teachers and pupils that government efforts to secure their release are being intensified.
Speaking on Wednesday during an Eid-el-Kabir gathering with Muslim faithful at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan, the governor said security agencies and the state government were working continuously to ensure the victims are safely returned.
He noted that although the incident had caused widespread concern, authorities were committed to resolving the situation and reuniting the abducted victims with their families as quickly as possible.
Makinde also expressed sympathy with affected families, urging them to remain hopeful in the face of the ongoing ordeal, while praying for strength and comfort for those directly impacted.
The abductions reportedly occurred during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, including Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, where scores of teachers and students were taken.
Beyond security concerns, the governor used the occasion to call for unity and tolerance among residents, especially as the country approaches a new political season. He urged citizens not to allow political, ethnic, or religious differences to divide them.
He described Oyo as a tolerant state where peaceful coexistence remains a core value, stressing that leadership transitions and political disagreements should never outweigh the collective interest of the people.
Earlier, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, led a delegation of Muslim faithful to the governor’s residence for the traditional Eid visit, describing the celebration as one that promotes sacrifice, peace, and togetherness.
Meanwhile, at the Eid prayer ground in Agodi, Ibadan, worshippers gathered in large numbers for special prayers for peace and security across the state and the country. The session was led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, AbdulGaniyy Agbotomokekere, who prayed for divine intervention and the safe return of the abducted victims.
Faithfuls also used the occasion to appeal for stronger security measures and urgent rescue efforts, as anxiety continues to grow over the fate of those kidnapped in the affected communities.