Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has appealed to residents and families of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area to remain calm and pray for their safe return, cautioning against protests at this critical moment.
The appeal was made on Sunday during a thanksgiving service marking the 60th birthday and retirement of the outgoing Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, held at the Christ Apostolic Church, Ibadan.
He said security agencies were already on the trail of the abductors and assured that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the victims unharmed.
According to him, public demonstrations at this stage could worsen the situation by giving kidnappers the attention they seek.
“Our reality is that bandits and terrorists are at our doorstep. I want to encourage the family members of the children and teachers who were kidnapped.
“This is not the time for protests. Terrorists and bandits do not think like normal people. If they did, they would not be carrying out such acts. Protests at this moment may only fuel their ego. We are doing everything possible, and this is the time for all of us to work together rather than apportion blame,” he said.
Makinde added that spiritual support was also important in resolving the crisis.
“Only God can touch their hearts. We are making every effort to bring back our children and their teachers safely,” he added.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
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