Makinde Visits Families of Abducted Pupils, Teachers, Promises Safe Return

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Sunday visited families of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, assuring them that his administration would continue to deploy every available resource toward securing their safe return.

The Governor, accompanied by senior government officials and political associates, visited L.A. Basic School, Ahoro-Esiele, where he met with relatives of the victims and members of the affected community.

The visit comes more than two weeks after suspected gunmen stormed three schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities, abducting dozens of pupils and teachers in one of the most disturbing attacks on educational institutions in the state's recent history.

Addressing residents, Makinde urged the community to remain united and avoid politicising the tragedy, stressing that the immediate priority should be the safe rescue of the victims rather than assigning blame.

“This is not the time to begin trading blame between the state government and the Federal Government. This is the time for all of us to come together and focus on bringing back our children and teachers,” the Governor said.

Makinde acknowledged the deep emotional pain being experienced by affected families and described the abduction of young children as a particularly heartbreaking development.

According to him, regardless of any grievances the abductors may claim to have, targeting innocent children and educators remains cruel, unacceptable and inhumane.

The governor revealed that since the incident occurred, he has been holding regular security meetings, often twice daily, with relevant agencies to coordinate rescue efforts and monitor developments.

He also paid tribute to members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, who have continued to confront criminal elements across the state, noting that some operatives had paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

“Don't cry. I have come here today because of you. You installed this government and I want you to know that this administration is responsible to you. By the grace of God and with your cooperation, we will bring back our children and their teachers,” he assured.

During the visit, family members of several victims shared emotional testimonies and appealed for urgent intervention.

Among them was Professor Wole Alamu, husband of an abducted school principal, who pleaded with authorities not to relent until the victims are rescued.

Mrs Funmilayo Ojo, whose daughter-in-law and four grandchildren remain in captivity, also made a passionate appeal for government action, describing the ordeal as devastating for the entire family.

Another relative, Mr Aliu Saidi, called for intensified efforts to secure the victims' release, saying many families have been living in fear and uncertainty since the attack.

Makinde later held a private meeting with affected families, where he briefed them on ongoing rescue operations and reassured them of the government's commitment to bringing their loved ones home safely.

The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, abducting dozens of pupils and teachers.

The incident took a tragic turn days later when one of the abducted teachers was reportedly killed by the kidnappers, heightening anxiety across the state. The attack has sparked outrage nationwide and renewed calls for stronger security around schools, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to criminal attacks.

While both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Makinde have pledged decisive action, concerns continue to mount as many of the victims remain in captivity.