Makinde Meets Protesters, Assures Oyo Residents of Safe Return of Abducted Pupils and Teachers
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Monday met with protesting residents, members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) during an ongoing demonstration over the abduction of pupils and teachers in the state.
Addressing the protesters, the governor acknowledged the concerns of residents and assured them that both the state and federal governments were actively working to secure the release of those kidnapped.
Makinde described those responsible for the attacks and abductions as people who have lost all sense of humanity.
“How can a human being slaughter a fellow human being? It does not make any sense,” the governor said, adding that the perpetrators were not acting like normal human beings.
He revealed that security operatives had been deployed to the affected area for about two weeks and had remained on the ground throughout the Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) celebrations as part of ongoing rescue efforts.
According to him, the state government receives regular updates from security personnel several times daily and continues to monitor developments closely.
The governor assured residents that every possible effort was being made to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils, teachers, and other victims.
During the interaction, some protesters responded with prayers and words of encouragement, while others urged the government to focus more on concrete action than assurances.
Makinde also addressed calls by the Nigeria Union of Teachers to embark on an indefinite strike, stating that the decision ultimately rests with the union.
“If they believe going on strike is the best approach, they can proceed. These are our children, and regardless of any action taken, the government will continue working tirelessly to ensure their safe return,” he said.
The governor further acknowledged that tackling insecurity remains a difficult challenge, noting that security agencies are dealing with individuals capable of carrying out brutal attacks against innocent citizens.
Despite the challenges, he expressed confidence that authorities at the federal, state, and local government levels would continue to intensify efforts to restore peace and bring the victims home safely.
The meeting came amid growing public concern over insecurity in Oyo State and increasing calls for stronger measures to protect schools, communities, and vulnerable residents.
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