Oyo School Kidnappings: Makinde Urges Unity, Says Not time to apportion blames

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called for unity in addressing the country’s security challenges following the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The governor made the appeal on Tuesday in Ibadan while receiving members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress and the National Association of Nigerian Students who staged a peaceful protest over the incident.

Makinde said the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers had caused deep concern and sadness across the state. He described the development as a painful event that should not be turned into a political issue at a time when families of the victims are anxiously awaiting their return.

According to the governor, the focus should remain on efforts to rescue those still in captivity and improve security rather than engaging in political arguments over who should be held responsible. He noted that insecurity affects all levels of government and requires collective action from leaders, security agencies and citizens.

Makinde also reflected on his personal connection to the teaching profession, recalling that his late father worked as a primary school teacher in a community close to the area where the abduction occurred. He said the incident struck him deeply because of that connection and because of the suffering being experienced by the affected families.

The governor maintained that the current situation demands cooperation among all stakeholders instead of accusations and political divisions. He said Nigerians must work together in confronting insecurity, which has continued to threaten lives, education and economic activities in different parts of the country.

His remarks came as labour unions, teachers and students continued to express concern over the safety of schools and the growing number of attacks on educational institutions. The protest in Ibadan formed part of wider efforts by education stakeholders to draw attention to the plight of the abducted victims and press for stronger security measures.

The kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area has attracted national attention, with various groups and individuals calling on authorities to intensify rescue operations and strengthen protection around schools.

Many have also urged the government to adopt lasting measures that will prevent similar incidents and restore confidence in the safety of the education sector.

As rescue efforts continue, the Oyo State Government has assured residents that it remains committed to working with security agencies and other relevant bodies to secure the release of the victims and improve security across the state.