Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said the abduction of pupils and staff from a school in the state occurred just hours after he declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing the timing of the incident as noteworthy while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity.
Makinde made the remarks while reflecting on the security challenges that followed his presidential declaration, noting that the kidnapping of the schoolchildren became one of the most significant security incidents his government had to confront.
The governor recalled that the victims were eventually rescued after spending 56 days in captivity, following coordinated efforts by security agencies and the state government.
According to Makinde, the successful rescue operation underscored the importance of intelligence gathering, collaboration among security agencies, and sustained efforts to combat criminal activities across the state.
“The school abduction happened just hours after I declared my intention to run for president in 2027,” the governor said, adding that his administration remained focused on ensuring the safe return of all those abducted rather than allowing political considerations to distract from rescue efforts.
Makinde did not directly link the kidnapping to his presidential ambition but suggested that the sequence of events deserved attention as he recounted the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The abduction, which shocked residents of Oyo State and the country at large, sparked widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over the security of schools in Nigeria. Families of the victims, civil society organisations, and education stakeholders repeatedly called on authorities to intensify rescue efforts and improve security around educational institutions.
The incident also prompted increased security operations in the affected area, with federal and state authorities deploying personnel to track down the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims.
Also read: Breaking: 46 Abducted Oyo schoolchildren, teachers regain freedom after 56 days in captivity (Video)
After 56 days in captivity, the abducted pupils and staff regained their freedom, bringing relief to their families and ending weeks of anxiety. The state government subsequently commended the security agencies involved in the operation and pledged to strengthen measures aimed at preventing similar incidents.
Makinde reiterated that his administration remains committed to improving security across Oyo State through enhanced intelligence gathering, community engagement, and increased support for security agencies.
He stressed that protecting lives and property remains one of the government’s top priorities, particularly in the face of evolving security threats affecting several parts of the country.
The governor also called for greater collaboration between federal and state authorities in addressing kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of violent crime, arguing that collective action is essential to restoring public confidence and ensuring lasting peace.
His comments come amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with several political figures positioning themselves for the presidential race even as issues of insecurity, economic reforms, and governance continue to dominate national discourse.
Makinde maintained that regardless of political developments, his administration would continue to prioritise the safety of residents and the protection of educational institutions, while working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen security across the state.
