Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents that the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state will be safely rescued and reunited with their families.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday while hosting Muslim political appointees led by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal at his Ikolaba residence in Ibadan as part of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
Speaking during the gathering, Makinde shifted attention from the festivities to the painful issue of the recent abduction that has continued to generate fear and concern across the state.
According to the governor, security efforts are ongoing to ensure the victims return home safely.
“We’re working around the clock to ensure the abducted children are united with their families,” Makinde said.
The governor also prayed for families currently going through emotional pain following the tragic incident.
“I pray that God Almighty consoles those in despair at their point of need,” he added.
Makinde further urged residents of Oyo State to continue embracing peace, tolerance, and unity as political activities ahead of future elections gradually begin.
He noted that Oyo State has remained one of the few states where religion and ethnicity have not been allowed to divide the people.
“It is difficult to use ethnicity or religion to divide us in Oyo State,” the governor stated.
Makinde reminded residents that political leaders would come and go, but the peace and stability of the state and country must remain a priority for everyone.
He stressed the importance of supporting whoever emerges as leaders after future elections in the interest of unity and development.
Earlier, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, while speaking at the Ibadan Central Praying Ground in Agodi, encouraged Muslims to emulate the obedience and sacrifice demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.
Lawal explained that Eid-el-Kabir teaches important lessons about obedience to lawful authority, sacrifice, charity, and peaceful coexistence.
He also thanked God for the peace currently enjoyed in Oyo State and prayed for continued stability across the state.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulganiyy Agbotomokekere, advised politicians to avoid actions capable of causing violence as the country approaches another political season.
He also urged Muslims to continue promoting tolerance, peace, and understanding in society.
The governor’s comments have sparked reactions online as many Nigerians continue to pray for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Source: Remarks by Governor Seyi Makinde during Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Ibadan / NAN.
