Governor Seyi Makinde has appealed for patience from residents and families affected by the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State, assuring them that security agencies are working diligently to secure the victims’ release.

The governor made the appeal while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) amid ongoing efforts to address the security situation surrounding the kidnapping incident.

Speaking during the meeting, Makinde acknowledged the anxiety and concern generated by the abduction but emphasized that the state government, in collaboration with federal security agencies, is pursuing all available measures to ensure the safe rescue of those held captive.

He commended the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies for their support in tackling security challenges across the state, noting that coordinated operations remain crucial to addressing threats posed by criminal elements.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stating that intelligence gathering and security operations have been intensified in response to the incident. He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security personnel by providing useful information that could aid ongoing rescue efforts.

The visit by the NAF delegation comes as concern continues to mount over the fate of the abducted teachers and pupils. The incident has sparked widespread reactions from residents, civil society groups, and education stakeholders, many of whom have called for swift action to secure the victims’ release.

Makinde assured families of the abducted individuals that the government had not relented in its efforts and remained focused on achieving a positive outcome. He also stressed the importance of avoiding actions or statements that could jeopardize ongoing security operations.

The Oyo State Government has in recent years strengthened collaboration with security agencies, including the military, police, and local security outfits, as part of broader efforts to improve safety and combat criminal activities across the state.

As rescue operations continue, authorities have maintained that every available resource is being deployed to secure the release of the victims and bring those responsible for the abduction to justice.