By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
IBADAN — Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Friday paid a condolence and solidarity visit to former Minister of Power and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Adebayo Adelabu, following the abduction of his younger sister and her twin sons in Ibadan.
Makinde’s visit, coming despite the political rivalry between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the APC in Oyo State, underscored the need to place humanity above partisan considerations during moments of distress.
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Adelabu, the 2023 governorship candidate of the APC in Oyo State and former Minister of Power, has remained one of Makinde’s notable political opponents. However, the governor’s visit demonstrated that compassion and empathy transcend political affiliations.
The governor was received at Adelabu’s residence, where he expressed sympathy with the former minister and members of his family over the unfortunate incident. He also assured them that security agencies were intensifying efforts to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The victims, identified as Mrs. Olaide Busayo Adegoke John-Paul and her twin sons, Peter and Paul, were reportedly kidnapped by suspected gunmen while she was taking the children to school in Ibadan.
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The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents and renewed calls for stronger security measures to curb the rising wave of kidnappings and violent crimes across the state.
The Merit Newspaper reports that political observers described Makinde’s visit as a demonstration of statesmanship, noting that moments of personal grief and tragedy often remind leaders of their shared humanity, regardless of political differences.
As efforts continue to secure the release of the abducted family members, many residents have expressed hope that the unfortunate incident will further strengthen collaboration among stakeholders in addressing insecurity and safeguarding lives and property in Oyo State.
