Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured families of abducted teachers and schoolchildren in the state that his administration is making intensive efforts to secure their release.

Makinde gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, alongside Muslim faithful at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan, during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

According to the governor, the state government is working continuously with security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.

“The challenges that we have, especially in Oyo, with our school children being kidnapped, we are working around the clock to ensure that the children are reunited with their families,” Makinde said.

“I also use this opportunity to say to those that are in despair right now, that God Almighty will meet them at their point of need.”

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The abduction occurred penultimate Friday during coordinated attacks on:

• Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota
• Community Grammar School
• L.A. Primary School, Esiele

All located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The attacks reportedly happened around 9:30 a.m., causing panic and fear across the affected communities.

Families of the abducted pupils and teachers have since continued to appeal for urgent government intervention and stronger rescue efforts.

Makinde Calls For Unity Ahead Of Political Season

The governor also used the Eid-el-Kabir celebration to call for peace, tolerance, and unity as the country gradually approaches another election season.

Makinde warned against attempts to divide people along ethnic or religious lines, stressing that Oyo State remains known for peaceful coexistence.

“We are very liberal and tolerant people. So, it’s difficult to use ethnicity or religion to divide us,” he said.

He added that political offices are temporary and should not override the collective interest of the people.

“Government will come and go but our state and our country remain,” Makinde stated.

Deputy Governor Commends Religious Harmony

Earlier, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal led Muslim faithful to the governor’s residence for the traditional Eid-el-Kabir homage.

Lawal praised Makinde for promoting inclusive governance and maintaining religious harmony in Oyo State.

He said the administration’s approach has strengthened peaceful coexistence among residents regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Prayers For Peace And Safe Return Of Victims

Meanwhile, Muslim faithful gathered in large numbers at the Agodi Eid praying ground in Ibadan for Eid prayers led by the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, AbdulGaniyy Agbotomokekere.

Special prayers were offered for:

• Peace and national stability
• Improved security across Nigeria
• Safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils

The congregation also urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations in the affected communities.