Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday personally addressed VeryDarkMan and other protesters who gathered outside the Government House in Ibadan over the kidnapping of schoolchildren and their teachers in the state.
The governor came out to engage directly with the demonstrators who had been calling for urgent government action to rescue the abducted victims.
Makinde Assures Rescue Efforts Are Ongoing
During the interaction, Governor Makinde assured the protesters that the state government is doing everything possible to secure the release of the kidnapped children and their teachers. He emphasised that Oyo State will not abandon them like the Chibok girls.
He disclosed that there is an ongoing rescue mission but said he could not reveal details publicly for security reasons. The governor urged the public to give the security agencies some time to carry out their operations successfully.
Makinde also noted that security has always been a top priority of his administration. He recalled setting up the Amotekun security outfit but admitted that challenges remain in adequately arming the corps.
VeryDarkMan’s Earlier Demands
VeryDarkMan had earlier issued a strong statement to the governor, warning that bandits would continue to hold the victims if the government failed to push back forcefully. He said he and other concerned citizens were ready to enter the bush with security operatives to rescue the captives, even if it meant accepting collateral damage.
The protests followed reports of bandit attacks on schools in parts of Oyo State, with gunmen abducting pupils and teachers.
Public Reactions
The governor’s decision to personally address the protesters has been described by many as a positive step in engaging citizens directly on security concerns. Some have praised him for coming out to listen, while others insist that concrete results in rescuing the victims are what truly matter.
The development comes at a time when insecurity, particularly kidnapping for ransom, continues to affect several states in the South-West and other parts of the country.
Governor Makinde assured the people that his administration would not rest until the abducted children and teachers are safely returned to their families.
