Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has appealed to residents and families of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area to remain calm as security agencies intensify efforts to secure their release.
The governor made the appeal on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held to celebrate the 60th birthday and retirement of the outgoing Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, at Christ Apostolic Church in Ibadan.
Makinde assured residents that security operatives were actively pursuing the abductors and working to ensure the safe return of the victims.
He urged families and members of the public to avoid protests at this stage, warning that such actions could complicate ongoing rescue efforts.
According to the governor, kidnappers and terrorists often seek attention and publicity, and public demonstrations may inadvertently encourage their actions.
“Our reality is that bandits and terrorists are at our doorstep. I want to encourage the family members of the children and teachers who were kidnapped,” Makinde said.
“This is not the time for protests. Terrorists and bandits do not think like normal people. If they did, they would not be carrying out such acts. Protests at this moment may only fuel their ego.”
He emphasized that government agencies were fully committed to resolving the situation and called on residents to support ongoing efforts rather than engage in blame games.
“We are doing everything possible, and this is the time for all of us to work together rather than apportion blame,” he added.
The governor also stressed the importance of prayers and spiritual support during the difficult period.
“Only God can touch their hearts. We are making every effort to bring back our children and their teachers safely,” he said.
The abduction of the pupils and teachers has sparked concern across Oyo State, with families and community members anxiously awaiting positive news about their whereabouts.
Authorities have yet to provide further details on the number of victims involved or the progress of negotiations, but security agencies continue to coordinate efforts to locate and rescue them.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as investigations continue.
