By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has assured families of victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area that his administration is working tirelessly to secure their safe release, pledging that no effort will be spared in bringing the victims back home.
The governor gave the assurance during a meeting with families of the abducted persons, community leaders, and residents at the open field of Ahoro Esiele Local Authority Basic School. The gathering, which attracted anxious relatives and concerned residents, provided an opportunity for the state government to update the community on ongoing rescue efforts and reassure them of its commitment to resolving the crisis.
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Addressing the crowd, Makinde acknowledged the pain, fear, and uncertainty being experienced by the affected families, noting that words alone could not adequately comfort those whose loved ones remain in captivity. He, however, urged them to remain patient and cooperate with security agencies as efforts to secure the victims’ release intensify.
The governor said his administration would continue to deploy every available resource to ensure a successful rescue operation, stressing that the safety of the abducted victims remains a top priority for the state government.
According to him, the state has made significant sacrifices in its fight against insecurity, revealing that nearly 200 operatives of the Western Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, have lost their lives while confronting criminal elements across Oyo State.
Makinde disclosed that since the abduction occurred, he has been holding security meetings twice daily with relevant agencies and stakeholders to review intelligence reports and coordinate rescue operations aimed at securing the victims’ freedom.
While expressing solidarity with the affected families, the governor said he shares in their grief and frustration, describing the actions of the abductors as cruel, unacceptable, and inhumane. He maintained that regardless of any grievances or demands the perpetrators may have, kidnapping innocent citizens can never be justified.
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The Merit Newspaper reports that the emotional meeting also featured appeals from family members of the victims. Professor Wole Alamu, whose wife, Mrs. Funmilayo Ojo, a school principal, was abducted alongside other victims, urged the government to intensify efforts toward their rescue. He lamented the trauma the incident has inflicted on the family, noting that his daughter-in-law and four grandchildren are also among those being held captive.
Similarly, Mr. Aliu Saidi, a relative of one of the abductees, appealed to the governor to use every available means to secure the safe return of their loved ones, saying the families have been living in fear and anguish since the incident occurred.
Following the public engagement, Governor Makinde held a closed-door meeting with families of the abducted teachers and pupils, where he reportedly provided further updates on ongoing operations and reassured them of the government’s unwavering determination to secure the victims’ release.
The meeting ended with renewed hope among residents as the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across the state and ensuring that those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice.
