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Tag: Seyi Makinde

  • Makinde Promises Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren as VDM Leads Protest in Ibadan

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed to do everything possible to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, declaring that he would be willing to sacrifice himself if it would guarantee their freedom.

    The governor made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing popular social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and hundreds of protesters who marched to the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan over the abduction.

    Makinde Assures Families of Victims

    Makinde said the state government had committed significant resources and mobilised all available security structures to ensure the victims are rescued.

    “Those children and their teachers will be brought back. Let me make it very clear: Oyo State is not Chibok, and it will never become Chibok. We have committed significant resources and deployed all available efforts to ensure their rescue,” he said.

    The governor noted that security personnel involved in the rescue efforts had continued to make sacrifices and assured residents that the government remained fully committed to bringing the victims home safely.

    Governor Speaks as a Parent

    Speaking on the emotional toll of the incident, Makinde said he understood the pain of the affected families because he is also a parent.

    “This is our reality now. I am also distressed with what is happening to our children after one month because I have children of my own too,” he said.

    He described the situation as particularly troubling because many of the victims were nursery school pupils.

    “This is the first time such a situation is happening, especially affecting nursery pupils who cannot even run or take care of themselves. I assure you that as the governor, we will rescue them.”

    ‘I Will Sacrifice Myself If Necessary’

    The governor further stressed his commitment to securing the victims’ freedom, saying no sacrifice would be too great if it meant bringing them back safely.

    “If you ask me whether I can sacrifice myself for those children to regain their freedom, I will do it. I have lived a good life, and nothing is more important than bringing those innocent children and their teachers back safely,” Makinde stated.

    His remarks came amid growing public concern over the abduction and increasing calls for urgent action from authorities.

    Governor Acknowledges Security Challenges

    Makinde said security had remained one of the priorities of his administration since he assumed office.

    He recalled establishing the state-backed security outfit, Amotekun, but admitted that the corps was yet to be adequately armed.

    “When I came in as governor, security was one of the cardinal principles of this administration and that’s why we set up Amotekun, but Amotekun has not been armed adequately. That is our reality now,” he said.

    VDM Leads Protest in Ibadan

    Earlier today, VeryDarkMan led members of the Ratel Movement and other supporters in a peaceful protest through major parts of Ibadan.

    The protesters gathered under the Iwo Road bridge before marching through the city with placards demanding the immediate rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    Addressing demonstrators, VDM urged both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release and strengthen security measures across the country.

    He said the protest was aimed at ensuring the plight of the victims and their families remained in public focus while drawing national attention to the growing security concerns affecting schools.

    The demonstration attracted widespread attention from residents as protesters chanted solidarity songs and called for urgent intervention from authorities.

  • Makinde Restricts Night Okada Operations Across Oyo Over Rising Insecurity

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has restricted the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. across the state as part of new security measures to address rising insecurity.

    The directive was announced during a statewide broadcast on Friday, June 5, following growing concerns over recent abductions in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Makinde Introduces Fresh Security Measures

    The governor said the decision was part of broader efforts to strengthen security operations and support ongoing rescue missions aimed at securing the release of abducted teachers and students.

    He assured residents that the state government remained fully committed to ensuring the safe return of the victims.

    “We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home,” Makinde said.

    He added that although details of the rescue operations could not be disclosed, security agencies were actively working to secure the victims.

    “We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved… A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes,” he stated.

    Okada Ban to Take Effect Nightly

    Makinde announced that commercial motorcycle operations would be restricted during night hours across the state.

    “With the signing of this Executive Order… the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. throughout Oyo State,” he said.

    He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, stressing that security requires collective responsibility.

    “If you see something, say something, and the authorities will do something,” the governor added.

    Insecurity Concerns in Oyo State

    The decision comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, abducting about 39 students and seven teachers.

    The situation escalated after one of the kidnapped teachers was reportedly killed by the abductors, sparking widespread outrage and protests by teachers and concerned groups across the state.

    A viral video showing one of the abducted school principals appealing for intervention further intensified public pressure on the government to act swiftly.

     

     

  • Teddy A Criticises Makinde Over Oyo Insecurity, Questions Security Vote Spending

    Former Big Brother Naija housemate and actor, Tope Adenibuyan, has criticised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over the security situation in the state following the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Teddy A made the remarks in a statement shared on his Instagram page, where he questioned the effectiveness of the state government’s security efforts.

    Questions Over Security Funding

    The reality television star alleged that Oyo State receives about ₦12 billion annually as a security vote but argued that residents continue to face serious security threats.

    According to him, the government has not done enough to guarantee the safety of lives and property despite the resources available for security-related matters.

    He also accused the governor of focusing on politics instead of addressing the challenges confronting residents.

    Kidnapping Incident Draws Reactions

    Teddy A’s comments come amid growing public concern over the abduction of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15.

    The incident has triggered protests and calls for the immediate rescue of the victims, with families and concerned citizens demanding stronger action from authorities.

    The abduction has remained a major topic of discussion across the country, with several public figures expressing concern over the security situation in Oyo State.

    Pressure Mounts on Authorities

    As rescue efforts continue, pressure has continued to mount on the state government and security agencies to secure the release of the kidnapped victims.

    Governor Makinde has previously assured residents that efforts are ongoing to bring the abductees home safely and improve security across affected communities.

  • Fayose Alleges Oyo Kidnap May Be Plot to Embarrass Tinubu

    Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has alleged that the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu, a claim that has added a new dimension to the controversy surrounding the attack.

    Fayose made the allegation on Monday during an interview on Channels Television, where he questioned the timing of events surrounding the kidnapping and the political activities of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

    Fayose Questions Timing of Incident

    According to Fayose, the circumstances surrounding the abduction raised suspicions about possible political motives aimed at discrediting the Tinubu administration.

    He argued that Governor Makinde appeared more focused on political activities linked to his party’s nomination process before publicly engaging with the families of the victims.

    “And I want to say to you in Oyo State, I have a strong belief, I may be wrong, that this sometimes can be orchestrated,” Fayose said.

    “The Governor of Oyo State had his nomination, the nomination of his candidate in the face of this abduction. He did not take any action, no steps were taken. It was after all those nominations that he went to the family to visit them.”

    Comparison With Jonathan Era

    Fayose also claimed that the incident was being used in a manner similar to how insecurity became a major issue during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    He maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had inherited significant challenges from previous administrations and was making efforts to address them.

    “I can sometimes believe that this was orchestrated in a way, I’m not saying totally, by the government of Oyo State to blackmail President Tinubu,” he added.

    Background to the Abduction

    Armed men riding motorcycles attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A Primary School in Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15.

    Police confirmed that an assistant headmaster, Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack. An okada rider was also reportedly shot dead after resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.

    Governor Seyi Makinde later disclosed that 25 students and seven teachers were abducted, while one teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the attackers. Videos circulated online later showed that the teacher was beheaded.

    Makinde’s Response

    Makinde has repeatedly condemned the attack and said the state government was prepared to explore all lawful options to secure the release of the victims.

    Addressing journalists in Ibadan, the governor said the government was willing to listen to the abductors’ demands if it would help secure the safe return of those in captivity.

    He also announced the establishment of an operational situation room at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters to coordinate rescue efforts and provide verified information to the public.

    Meanwhile, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

  • APC Tells Makinde to Resign Over Security Comments, Says Governor Has Failed Oyo

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has criticised Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent comments on insecurity, accusing him of failing in his responsibility to protect lives and property in the state.

    The opposition party also called on the governor to resign and allow his deputy complete the remaining year of the administration.

    APC Rejects Makinde’s Position

    In a statement issued in Ibadan by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC faulted Makinde’s remarks that governors have limited control over security agencies because they are under federal authority.

    The party described the governor’s position as an attempt to shift responsibility amid growing concerns over insecurity, particularly following the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    According to the APC, Makinde’s comments reflected what it described as a lack of leadership at a critical time for the state.

    Security Debate Deepens

    Makinde recently renewed his call for the establishment of state police, arguing that governors often bear responsibility for security challenges without having direct control over security agencies.

    The governor made the remarks while addressing members of the Allied Peoples Movement during its primary election in Ibadan.

    He maintained that empowering states to establish and manage their own police structures would improve responses to security threats across the country.

    APC Cites Previous Administrations

    The opposition party argued that previous governors operated under the same constitutional framework without facing the level of insecurity currently affecting parts of Oyo State.

    The APC specifically referenced former governors including the late Lam Adesina, Rasheed Ladoja, the late Adebayo Alao-Akala and the late Abiola Ajimobi.

    According to the party, Ajimobi strengthened security through the establishment of a security trust fund and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

    Calls for Resignation

    APC further claimed that Makinde’s presidential ambition was distracting him from governance and alleged that his handling of security issues had exposed weaknesses in his administration.

    The party insisted that if the governor believes he lacks the authority to effectively tackle insecurity, he should step aside.

    “Makinde has failed to demonstrate the leadership qualities required at this critical period and should resign from office immediately,” the statement said.

    State Police Remains Key Issue

    The exchange highlights the growing debate over state policing in Nigeria, with supporters arguing that decentralised policing would improve security, while critics remain concerned about potential political abuse and constitutional implications.

    The discussion has gained renewed attention following recent kidnappings involving teachers and students in parts of Oyo State.

  • Makinde Accepts APM Presidential Ticket, Promises State Police and Security Reforms

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has accepted the presidential nomination of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) for the 2027 general election, pledging to prioritise security reforms and restore public confidence in governance.

    Makinde received the party’s certificate of return and flag during a ceremony held in Ibadan after delegates reportedly endorsed him as the party’s consensus candidate.

    Makinde Accepts Nomination

    Speaking after receiving the nomination, Makinde said his decision to run was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to address Nigeria’s challenges through practical leadership and transparent governance.

    According to him, the country needs leaders who can rebuild trust and deliver results that directly impact ordinary citizens.

    He said his administration’s experience in Oyo State had shown that meaningful reforms are possible when leaders remain accountable to the people.

    Security Takes Centre Stage

    A major focus of Makinde’s speech was insecurity, which he described as one of the country’s most pressing challenges.

    The governor referenced the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen killed a teacher and abducted students and educators.

    Makinde argued that governors often lack sufficient constitutional powers to respond effectively to security emergencies despite being regarded as chief security officers of their states.

    Push For State Police

    The Oyo governor reiterated his support for state policing, insisting that Nigeria’s current security structure requires urgent reform.

    According to him, decentralising security operations and granting more authority to state governments would improve response times and strengthen efforts to protect lives and property.

    He maintained that localised security solutions remain critical to tackling kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes across the country.

    Supporters Back Reform Agenda

    Supporters at the event described Makinde’s emergence as an opportunity to advance conversations around governance reform, security and economic development.

    His nomination adds another prominent name to the growing list of politicians being linked with the 2027 presidential race.

  • Makinde Tells FG to Stop Delaying State Police Amid Rising Insecurity

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on the Federal Government to stop delaying the establishment of state police, insisting that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity requires urgent decentralisation of policing powers.

    Makinde made the remarks on Thursday in Ibadan during a political gathering, amid growing concerns over recent kidnappings and attacks in parts of Oyo State and other regions of the country.

    Makinde Pushes For State Police

    Speaking during the event, the governor described the South-West security outfit, Amotekun, as only a temporary solution created because the Federal Government failed to approve state police.

    According to him, governors and state assemblies should be allowed to establish and control security structures capable of responding quickly to local threats.

    “FG should stop wasting our time and stop asking the IG of Police to establish State Police,” Makinde said.

    He argued that insecurity challenges affecting communities across Nigeria require localised policing systems rather than complete dependence on federal security agencies.

    Reference To Amotekun And South-West Security

    Makinde also referenced the creation of the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, which was launched by South-West governors in 2020 to tackle rising kidnappings, banditry and violent crimes.

    He noted that Amotekun was introduced because of frustrations over insecurity and delays surrounding the state police debate.

    The governor further stated that Lagos State, under then-Governor Bola Tinubu, did not initially join the regional security arrangement.

    Insecurity Concerns Continue

    The governor’s comments come days after renewed outrage over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State’s Oriire Local Government Area earlier in May.

    The incident sparked national conversations about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security structure and renewed calls for decentralised policing.

    Makinde has repeatedly maintained that security remains one of the major priorities of his administration, while urging stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities.

    Debate Over State Police Intensifies

    Nigeria has for years debated the creation of state police as insecurity continues to spread across different regions of the country.

    Supporters argue that governors and local authorities better understand security challenges within their communities and can respond faster than centrally controlled federal forces.

    However, critics have warned that state police could be abused by governors for political purposes or used to intimidate opposition figures.

    Despite those concerns, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has previously expressed support for state police reforms, although constitutional amendments and implementation details remain unresolved.

    Public Reactions Grow

    Makinde’s latest comments have generated mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians supporting his position amid rising insecurity nationwide.

    Others, however, questioned whether state governors can be trusted with full control of police structures without adequate safeguards and oversight mechanisms.

    The growing debate highlights ongoing tensions around Nigeria’s federal structure, security governance and demands for greater autonomy by state governments.

    As insecurity continues to dominate public discourse, pressure is increasing on the Federal Government and lawmakers to decide whether Nigeria should fully embrace decentralised policing.

  • “Terrorists Only Want To Speak With Makinde” — Fresh Fear As Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren Spend Eight Days In Captivity

    Fresh details have emerged over the abduction of pupils, teachers and residents in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as terrorists reportedly opened communication channels with the state government.

    According to reports, the kidnappers allegedly refused to negotiate with families of the victims and insisted they only wanted to speak directly with Governor Seyi Makinde.

    “They Only Want To Talk To The Governor”

    Sources familiar with the development told Saturday PUNCH that all attempts by relatives to contact the abductors were rejected.

    “They said they only want to talk to the governor and nobody else. That was the condition they gave for negotiation,” a source disclosed.

    Another source described the communication as a slight relief despite growing fears over the safety of the captives.

    “It is not that security agencies don’t know what to do. But the risks are too high. The relief is that at least now, they are talking,” the source added.

    However, officials have remained silent on the exact demands allegedly made by the abductors.

    Children Still Missing After Eight Days

    The victims, including toddlers reportedly aged between two and three years old, have now spent eight days in captivity after terrorists attacked schools in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities.

    Reports claimed the captives were being moved through forests and difficult terrains across different locations to evade security operatives.

    Community leaders and parents have continued to express fear over the harsh conditions the abducted children may be facing inside the forests.

    “We are worried about their safety. We don’t know how they are faring. Children of two-year-old are among the abductees,” a community leader said.

    Schools Deserted Amid Growing Panic

    The attack has also triggered panic across Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with many schools reportedly deserted by pupils and teachers.

    A teacher in the area said attendance in both public and private schools had dropped drastically since the incident.

    “All the schools in Ogbomoso have been empty since Monday. Parents are afraid,” the teacher explained.

    The source also recounted how panic spread further after students reportedly mistook hunters for terrorists near Areago Grammar School, leading to chaos in the area.

    “One pupil died after being knocked down by a vehicle while people were running. His mother also reportedly died after hearing the news,” the teacher added.

    Fear Continues Across Communities

    Residents in Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure and nearby communities reportedly remain gripped by fear as many parents continue to keep their children away from school.

    Meanwhile, teachers in several affected schools reportedly stayed away from work on Friday in honour of Joel Adesiyan, a former Assistant Headmaster allegedly killed during the attacks.

    The latest development has continued to raise concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Oyo State and the growing threat of school attacks in Nigeria.

  • Makinde-Backed PDP Faction Declares Jonathan Sole Presidential Candidate for 2027

    A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared former President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

    The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja during the party’s presidential screening exercise, where senior member Babangida Aliyu confirmed that Jonathan had been granted a waiver from appearing before the committee.

    Jonathan Cleared Without Screening

    Aliyu explained that the decision was based on Jonathan’s extensive political experience, noting that his previous roles made additional screening unnecessary.

    According to him, Jonathan had served as deputy governor, governor, vice president and later president, making him automatically qualified for the party’s consideration.

    “In other words, he had been declared and cleared as the candidate of the PDP for the presidential election and that is President Jonathan,” Aliyu said.

    The development effectively positions Jonathan as the faction’s consensus flagbearer ahead of the 2027 polls.

    Screening Waivers Extended to Other Aspirants

    The committee also granted a waiver to Taofeek Arapaja, a member of the Interim National Working Committee, who is contesting the Oyo State governorship seat.

    Other governorship aspirants screened and cleared include Myebangara Andrew (Adamawa), Ikenya Danlami (Taraba), Etanabene Benedict (Delta), and Abdullahi Sheriff (Yobe).

    Faction Moves Signal Internal Realignment

    The announcement highlights ongoing internal realignments within the PDP as different blocs position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    While the faction insists its process follows party guidelines, the declaration is expected to further intensify political debates within the opposition party.

  • Makinde Confirms Abducted Oyo Teacher Killed by Terrorists After School Attack

    Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that one of the teachers abducted during the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has been killed by terrorists.

    Makinde made the disclosure during a press briefing on the school abduction incident, days after armed men invaded schools in Ahoro-Esinele community and kidnapped dozens of teachers and pupils.

    Makinde confirms teacher’s death

    According to the governor, intelligence reports available to the state government showed that seven teachers were abducted during the attack.

    He added that one of the victims, identified as a mathematics teacher, was killed after a disturbing video surfaced online.

    “What we know right now is that seven teachers were abducted. And unfortunately, we got a video this morning that one of the teachers, I understand the maths teacher, was killed by the terrorists this morning. Of course our prayers are with the family,” Makinde said.

    RNN had earlier reported that a viral video allegedly showed Mr. Oyedekun being beheaded while in captivity.

    Government adopts new rescue strategies

    The governor stated that the state government had begun combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to address the crisis and secure the release of the remaining victims.

    He revealed that consultations were ongoing with community leaders, security agencies and religious organisations, including the Baptist Convention whose school was affected during the attack.

    According to Makinde, the situation remains difficult and sensitive, stressing that authorities are doing everything possible to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers safely.

    “We have decided that we will adopt not just the kinetic approach. There has been a lot of threats… I want to appeal. We have not taken this lightly,” he said.

    Makinde appeals for calm

    The governor appealed to residents of the affected communities and the people of Oyo State to cooperate with security agencies and support rescue efforts.

    He insisted that the priority of government remained the safe return of the remaining abducted victims.

    “I want to appeal that we do everything within our power to ensure that this is resolved quickly and we bring our children back safely. But it is a very difficult and challenging situation,” he added.

    Makinde also announced that the state government would commence daily press briefings to keep the public updated on developments surrounding the rescue operations.