Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed sympathy with the families of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
In a message marking Eid-el-Kabir and Children’s Day on Wednesday, Governor Makinde said his thoughts were with the affected families and security agencies working to secure the release of the victims.
“As we mark this year’s Eid and Children’s Day, our thoughts are with every family awaiting the return of their loved ones, and with security agencies working to keep our communities safe,” he wrote on X.
Gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire LGA on May 15 and abducted dozens of pupils, including toddlers and teachers.
A teacher Adesiyan Adegboye was killed during the attack, while another teacher Michael Oyedokun, was beheaded in captivity.
Makinde said the government was working to secure the release of those abducted.
“We are working to ensure the safe return of those who were kidnapped in Oriire LGA. May this holy season fill our State with peace,” he added.
The governor also congratulated Muslims in Oyo State and across the country on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration and urged them to pray for peace and stability in the state and Nigeria.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde described Eid-el-Kabir as a festival of sacrifice and obedience.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant during and after the celebrations due to security challenges in parts of the country.
According to reports, the abductors of the pupils and teachers recently opened communication with the state government, although details of the discussions were not disclosed.
