Seyi Makinde has assured families of the abducted teachers and students in Oyo State that his administration is working tirelessly to secure their safe return.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration held at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan, where he received the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, alongside Muslim faithful.
Makinde said the government was making serious efforts to reunite the kidnapped victims with their families following the shocking attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that the children are reunited with their families,” the governor stated, while also praying for affected families facing difficult moments.
The victims were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro Esiele, Oriire LGA, where gunmen reportedly invaded the schools and whisked away scores of teachers and students.
Speaking further, Makinde urged Nigerians to embrace peace, unity, and tolerance as the country gradually enters another political season ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, Oyo State remains a liberal and peaceful state where religion and ethnicity should never be used as tools for political division.
The governor stressed that political offices are temporary, noting that the collective interest of Nigeria and Oyo State must always come first regardless of political differences.
Earlier, Lawal commended the governor for promoting religious harmony and inclusive governance in the state, describing the Eid-el-Kabir visit as part of efforts to strengthen peace, sacrifice, and togetherness among residents.
Meanwhile, thousands of Muslim faithful gathered at the Agodi Eid praying ground in Ibadan for special prayers seeking peace, security, and the safe return of the kidnapped victims.
The prayer session was led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, AbdulGaniyy Agbotomokekere, who prayed for stability in Nigeria and divine intervention amid rising security concerns in Oyo State.
