Governor Seyi Makinde says efforts are ongoing to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo as residents are urged to remain calm and united.
Fear and anxiety continue to spread across Oyo State following the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, but Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that intensive efforts are underway to secure their safe return.
The governor gave the reassurance on Wednesday during a meeting with Muslim political appointees led by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal at his Ikolaba residence in Ibadan as part of Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
What was expected to be a moment of celebration quickly turned emotional as discussions shifted to the disturbing Oyo school abduction that has left many parents and residents deeply worried.
Makinde said the state government, alongside security agencies, has continued to work tirelessly behind the scenes to rescue the kidnapped pupils and teachers and reunite them with their families.
According to him, the incident remains one of the administration’s top priorities, stressing that authorities are determined not to relent until the victims regain their freedom.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the abducted children and their teachers return home safely. Security agencies are fully involved, and we remain hopeful,” the governor stated.
He also prayed for the affected families, asking God to comfort parents and relatives facing emotional pain and uncertainty over the incident.
The Oyo school abduction has triggered widespread concern among residents, especially as cases of attacks on schools and communities continue to raise fears across different parts of the country.
Despite the tension surrounding the incident, Makinde urged citizens not to allow fear or political differences to divide the state.
He described Oyo as a peaceful and tolerant state where religion and ethnicity have never been allowed to destroy unity among residents.
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The governor further appealed to politicians and their supporters to avoid actions capable of causing violence as political activities gradually begin ahead of another election season.
“As we approach another political period, we must remember that political offices are temporary, but the peace and stability of our state must remain permanent,” he said.
Makinde added that leadership positions would eventually change hands, but the collective responsibility to protect Oyo State and Nigeria must remain a priority for everyone regardless of political affiliation.
He urged residents to continue supporting lawful authorities and security agencies in maintaining peace across the state.
Earlier, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal addressed journalists shortly after observing Eid prayers at the Ibadan Central Praying Ground in Agodi.
He reflected on the lessons of Eid-el-Kabir, describing the celebration as a reminder of obedience, sacrifice and faith in God.
Lawal explained that Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son before Allah replaced him with a ram remains one of the greatest examples of total obedience in Islam.
According to him, Muslims should use the occasion to embrace sacrifice, patience, humility and kindness toward others.
“This period teaches us the importance of sacrifice and charity. We must continue to help one another and promote peaceful coexistence in society,” the deputy governor said.
He also appreciated the peaceful atmosphere currently being enjoyed in Oyo State and expressed hope that the state would continue to experience stability despite security concerns in some areas.
Lawal called on residents to continue praying for peace, unity and progress across the state.
Meanwhile, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiyy Agbotomokekere, used his Eid sermon to advise Muslims and political leaders to uphold peace and tolerance at all times.
The cleric warned against inflammatory statements and actions capable of disrupting the peaceful atmosphere in the state as political campaigns draw closer.
He urged Muslims to emulate the character of Prophet Ibrahim by practising obedience, patience and tolerance in their daily lives.
Agbotomokekere stressed that maintaining peace should remain a shared responsibility among citizens, religious leaders and politicians.
The latest Oyo school abduction has once again highlighted growing concerns over insecurity and attacks on vulnerable communities, especially schools located in remote areas.
Many residents are now hoping that the assurances from Governor Seyi Makinde will soon produce positive results as families anxiously wait for news about the safe return of their loved ones.
For the affected parents, every passing day remains painful, but the expectation across the state is that the abducted pupils and teachers will soon be rescued safely and reunited with their families.
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