Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured families of teachers and pupils abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area that efforts are ongoing to secure their safe return.
Makinde gave the assurance on Wednesday during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan, where he received the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, alongside Muslim faithful who paid him the traditional Sallah homage.
The governor said his administration was working “round the clock” with security agencies to ensure the kidnapped victims return safely to their families.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that the children are reunited with their families,” Makinde said.
“So, I also use this opportunity to say to those that are in despair right now, that God Almighty will meet them at their point of need.”
The abduction occurred penultimate Friday when armed men attacked multiple schools in Ahoro Esiele, Oriire LGA, around 9:30 a.m.
The affected schools included Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele. Several teachers and pupils were reportedly whisked away during the attacks, triggering renewed concerns over insecurity in schools.
Security agencies have yet to officially disclose the exact number of victims rescued or still in captivity, but rescue operations are said to be ongoing.
Makinde also used the occasion to urge residents not to allow politics, ethnicity or religion to divide the state as the country gradually approaches another political season.
He described Oyo as a liberal and tolerant state where peaceful coexistence remains strong despite political differences.
“Government will come and go but our state and our country remain,” the governor said.
“Even when we disagree with ourselves, it’s a temporary thing.”
The governor added that whoever emerges in future elections would ultimately have to work with all stakeholders in the interest of the state and the country.
Earlier, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal said the Eid visit reflected the values of sacrifice, peace and unity associated with the Islamic celebration.
He also commended the Makinde administration for promoting religious harmony and inclusive governance in Oyo State.
At the Agodi Eid praying ground in Ibadan, Muslim faithful gathered in large numbers to observe the Eid-el-Kabir prayers amid growing concern over the security situation in the state.
The prayer session, led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, AbdulGaniyy Agbotomokekere, focused on peace, stability and improved security across Nigeria.
Special prayers were also offered for the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils, with worshippers urging security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and restore calm in affected communities.
The incident has added to growing national concerns over attacks on schools and mass abductions in parts of the country despite repeated assurances by authorities on improved security measures.
