Governor Seyi Makinde
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has appealed to residents and families of the abducted schoolchildren in the state to avoid protests, warning that public demonstrations at this sensitive time could worsen tensions and unintentionally strengthen the resolve of the kidnappers.
Speaking on the incident, he said the state is currently dealing with a difficult and painful security situation, noting that armed groups are already operating dangerously close to communities.
According to him, the priority now is to handle the situation carefully and support ongoing efforts to secure the safe return of the children.
He urged families to remain calm and avoid actions that could complicate rescue operations, stressing that emotions, while understandable, must be managed in a way that does not put the victims at further risk.
“This is not the time for protest,” he said, warning that such actions could “fuel the ego” of the abductors and make negotiations or rescue efforts more complicated.
Makinde also described the situation as one that requires both security action and spiritual reflection, urging residents to remain prayerful while authorities continue working behind the scenes.
He added that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abducted children, assuring the public that the government is not idle in responding to the incident.
The governor’s remarks come amid rising concern in the state following the abduction, with calls for swift and effective action from security agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims.
The Guardian
