Amid Tears and Anxiety, Makinde Meets Families of Abducted Schoolchildren and Teachers

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has met with families of pupils, teachers and residents abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area, assuring them that his administration is doing everything possible to secure their safe release.

The Governor gave the assurance during a meeting with affected families, community leaders and residents at the open field of Ahoro Esiele LA Basic School in Oriire Local Government Area.

Addressing the gathering, Makinde appealed for patience, understanding and cooperation as security agencies continue efforts to rescue the victims and reunite them with their families.

He acknowledged the pain, fear and uncertainty being experienced by the affected families, noting that no words could fully console those whose loved ones remain in captivity.

According to the Governor, the state government remains fully committed to ensuring that all abducted victims are rescued unharmed.

“I want to assure you that we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to secure the release of our people. We understand your pain and we share in your concerns. We are pushing beyond every limit to ensure a successful rescue mission,” Makinde said.

The Governor disclosed that since the abduction occurred, he has been holding security meetings twice daily while maintaining close coordination with security agencies involved in the rescue operation.

Makinde also paid tribute to operatives of the Western Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, revealing that nearly 200 personnel have lost their lives while protecting communities and tackling insecurity across Oyo State.

He stressed that regardless of any grievances the abductors may claim to have, the kidnapping of innocent children, teachers and residents remains cruel, unacceptable and inhumane.

While expressing solidarity with the affected families, the Governor said he personally shares in their grief and remains determined to ensure the safe return of all victims.

During the meeting, family members made emotional appeals to the Governor to intensify efforts toward securing the victims’ release.

One of them, Professor Wole Alamu, disclosed that his wife, Mrs. Funmilayo Ojo, a school principal, remains in captivity alongside his daughter-in-law and four grandchildren.

Another family representative, Aliu Saidi, urged the Governor to deploy every available resource to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

Following the public engagement, Governor Makinde held a private meeting with families of the abducted pupils and teachers to discuss ongoing rescue efforts and further reassure them of the government’s commitment to bringing their loved ones home safely.

The meeting comes amid growing concern over the security situation in Oriire Local Government Area following the recent abduction of pupils, teachers and residents, an incident that has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for stronger security measures across vulnerable communities in Oyo State.