Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured families of abducted teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area that the victims will soon return home safely.
Makinde gave the assurance on Wednesday during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan, where he received the state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, and other Muslim faithful.
The governor said his administration was working tirelessly to secure the release of the kidnapped victims.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that the children are reunited with their families,” Makinde said.
He also prayed for families currently facing emotional pain and uncertainty due to the abduction incident.
“I use this opportunity to pray that God Almighty will meet everyone at their point of need,” he added.
The abduction occurred after gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, around 9:30 a.m. penultimate Friday.
Makinde used the occasion to call for unity, peace, and tolerance among Nigerians as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gradually intensify.
According to him, Oyo State remains peaceful because residents refuse to allow religion or ethnicity divide them.
“As we move into another political season, we must remember that governments will come and go, but our state and country will remain,” the governor said.
He stressed that political disagreements should never destroy national unity or peaceful coexistence.
Makinde explained that after elections, elected leaders and citizens would still need to work together for the progress of the state and the country.
Earlier, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal said the Eid-el-Kabir visit symbolised peace, sacrifice, togetherness, and unity among residents of the state.
Lawal praised Makinde for promoting inclusive governance and maintaining religious harmony across Oyo State.
Meanwhile, thousands of Muslim faithful gathered at the Agodi Eid praying ground in Ibadan to observe Eid-el-Kabir prayers and seek peace for Nigeria.
The Chief Imam of Ibadanland, AbdulGaniyy Agbotomokekere, led special prayers for national stability, improved security, and the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.
Worshippers also urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and restore calm to affected communities in the state.
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