A fresh political controversy has erupted after the Oyo State Government fired back at former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over comments linking the state administration to recent kidnapping incidents involving schoolchildren and teachers.
The sharp response came after Fayose reportedly suggested that the abduction of pupils in Oyo State could have been politically motivated and allegedly intended to embarrass President Bola Tinubu. He further claimed, without presenting evidence, that the state government might have had a role in the incident.
The allegations immediately triggered reactions, with the Oyo State Government describing the claims as baseless, unfounded, and lacking any credible evidence.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the government urged Nigerians to disregard the remarks and remain focused on the urgent task of securing the release of the victims still in captivity.
According to the statement, Governor Seyi Makinde is fully occupied with coordinating efforts alongside security agencies to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers and ensure their safe return to their families.
The government stressed that ongoing rescue operations require concentration, cooperation, and discretion, warning that politically charged statements could complicate sensitive security efforts.
Officials further accused Fayose of promoting narratives that could distract attention from the primary objective of saving lives and restoring security.
Part of the government’s response described the former governor’s comments as an example of poor judgment, especially at a time when families are anxiously waiting for positive news about their loved ones.
