Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has assured families of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area that his administration is doing everything possible to secure their safe return, saying he shares in their grief and concerns.
The governor gave the assurance on Saturday during a visit to the community, where he met with relatives of the victims, community leaders and residents at the open field of Ahoro Esiele LA Basic School.
Addressing the gathering, Makinde acknowledged the emotional trauma being experienced by the families and appealed for patience and cooperation as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the abductees.
“I share your grief and concerns. I understand the pain and anxiety this unfortunate incident has caused. We are doing everything humanly possible to ensure that your loved ones return safely, and by the grace of God, they will soon be reunited with their families,” the governor said.
Makinde disclosed that since the abduction occurred about two weeks ago, he has been holding security meetings twice daily and working closely with security agencies to coordinate rescue efforts.
He assured residents that the state government would not relent until the victims regain their freedom, stressing that no stone would be left unturned in the ongoing rescue operation.
The governor also paid tribute to operatives of the Western Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, who have lost their lives while confronting criminal elements across the state, noting that security personnel continue to make sacrifices in the fight against insecurity.
According to him, regardless of any grievances or demands the abductors may claim to have, taking innocent children and teachers captive remains unacceptable and inhumane.
Speaking on behalf of the affected families, Professor Wole Alamu, husband of one of the abducted school principals, appealed to the governor to sustain efforts toward securing the release of the victims.
Mrs. Funmilayo Ojo, whose daughter-in-law and four grandchildren are among those being held captive, also pleaded with the government to do everything within its power to bring them home safely.
Similarly, Mr. Aliu Saidi, a relative of one of the victims, urged security agencies to intensify efforts and ensure the abductees are rescued unharmed.
Following the public meeting, Governor Makinde held a private session with family members of the abducted pupils and teachers, where he further reassured them of the government’s commitment to securing the victims’ release and provided updates on ongoing rescue efforts.
The governor’s visit comes amid growing concerns over the safety of the abducted pupils and teachers, with residents expressing hope that the intensified security operations will soon lead to their safe return.
