Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State, recently noted a suspicious timeline regarding the kidnapping of students and educators in the Oriire Local Government Area. He suggested that the crime took place shortly after he publicly stated his ambition to seek the presidency in 2027.
During a visit to Bauchi State to meet with Governor Bala Mohammed, Makinde pointed out that his administration had avoided such incidents for seven years. He noted that the abduction occurred on May 15, just hours after his declaration. He stated that within five hours of his announcement, the students were taken.
The Presidency confirmed that all captives were released following a 56-day ordeal. A joint mission involving the police, the military, and the Department of State Services successfully freed them. Eight suspects were captured, while others were killed in the encounter. Officials emphasized that no ransom was paid and no concessions were made to the kidnappers.
Governor Makinde expressed his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the security services for their roles in the rescue. He described the recovery of the victims as a significant relief to the families and the entire Oyo community.
