Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said he would be willing to sacrifice himself if it would secure the release of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted by terrorists in the state more than 30 days ago.
Makinde made the emotional declaration on Tuesday while addressing protesters at the Government House in Ibadan. The demonstration was led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, who joined concerned residents in demanding urgent action to rescue the victims.
The governor, while assuring the protesters that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, said he understood the pain and frustration of families whose loved ones remained in captivity.
According to Makinde, if it were possible, he would personally make the sacrifice to ensure the safe return of the children, who have spent more than 30 days in captivity.
He, however, explained that rescuing the victims would require a carefully coordinated operation, noting that the government was working with security agencies to achieve that goal.
“The operation to rescue them is a special type of operation. As the Governor of Oyo State, I give you assurance that we will bring back those children,” Makinde said.
The protest comes amid growing concern over the fate of the victims, who were abducted last month when terrorists reportedly invaded schools in Yawota and Esiele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The attack resulted in the abduction of more than 40 pupils and teachers, sparking outrage and calls for stronger security measures across the state.
VeryDarkMan and other protesters urged the government to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release, stressing that the children had spent over a month in captivity.
Makinde reiterated his administration’s commitment to bringing the abductees home safely, assuring residents that the government would not relent until the children and their teachers were reunited with their families.
