Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his commitment to securing the safe release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, declaring that he is prepared to make any sacrifice—including risking his own life—to ensure their rescue.
The governor made the emotional declaration on Tuesday while addressing a group of peaceful protesters who converged at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan. The solidarity march was led by popular activist and social commentator, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).
Speaking to the demonstrators, Governor Makinde acknowledged the growing concerns of residents and the wider public over the kidnapping incident, assuring them that security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
According to the governor, the security architecture currently deployed in the area is robust and capable of achieving the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers with minimal casualties. He noted that intelligence reports available to the government indicate that no additional lives have been lost since the tragic killing of a Mathematics teacher during the abduction.
Makinde emphasized that the government remains focused on a strategic and intelligence-driven rescue operation rather than taking actions that could endanger the lives of the captives. However, he stressed that if circumstances demand greater personal involvement, he would not hesitate to place himself at risk for the sake of the victims.
“I am ready to make any sacrifice necessary for their release. If the situation requires it, I am prepared to personally join the rescue efforts,” the governor stated, reaffirming his determination to ensure that every abducted child and teacher returns home safely.
The governor also reiterated his administration’s position on negotiations with kidnappers, maintaining that paying ransom or entering into direct negotiations with criminal groups is not the most appropriate approach for government. He argued that yielding to such demands could further encourage criminal activities and undermine efforts to combat kidnapping and banditry across the country.
While addressing the protesters, Makinde commended their peaceful conduct and civic responsibility, describing their demonstration as a positive example of democratic engagement. He noted that public advocacy and constructive pressure from citizens often serve as catalysts for swift action by leaders and security agencies.
According to him, peaceful protests help keep critical issues in the public spotlight and reinforce the collective resolve needed to achieve meaningful outcomes.
Earlier, Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan) explained that the solidarity walk was organized to support the government’s efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims and reunite them with their families as quickly as possible.
The activist expressed concern over the increasing wave of kidnappings and insecurity affecting various parts of Nigeria, stressing that citizens must continue to demand stronger action against criminal elements threatening communities.
Otse further pledged his willingness to volunteer alongside other Nigerian youths to support rescue efforts in Oriire Local Government Area if necessary. He described the initiative as part of a broader commitment to confronting the growing menace of kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes across the country.
The abduction has generated widespread concern among residents, parents, and stakeholders, with many calling for intensified security operations and greater protection for schools and rural communities. The incident has also reignited conversations about the need for sustained collaboration between government, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens in addressing insecurity.
As rescue efforts continue, families of the abducted pupils and teachers remain hopeful that ongoing security operations will lead to their safe return. Governor Makinde’s strong declaration has further underscored the seriousness with which the Oyo State Government is approaching the crisis, while also reflecting the urgency of bringing the unfortunate ordeal to an end.
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