Makinde Calls for Unity in Response to School Abductions

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde addressed the issue of the abduction of 40 pupils and seven teachers from Ahoro, Esinel, and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, which occurred on May 15. He urged Nigerians to stop blaming the government and instead support its efforts to ensure the safe and speedy release of the victims.

During a protest involving members of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Nigeria Union of Teachers, and the Nigerian Labour Congress in Ibadan, Makinde expressed his distress over the incident, recalling his father's teaching at Ahoro Dada Primary School in 1959-60. He emphasized the need for unity to confront the challenges posed by banditry, stating that the government has met at least three times daily over the past two weeks to review rescue efforts.

Makinde warned against actions that could deepen divisions and called for a long-term security reform to improve safety in schools.