Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, is not happy with the ongoing protest in Ibadan, even as the protesters say they will not vacate the government premises until the kidnapped victims are rescued.
Speaking on the security situation, the governor described the threat posed by bandits and terrorists as a harsh reality confronting the state, noting that criminal elements were operating dangerously close to communities.
“I told the people our reality. Our reality is that the bandits, the terrorists, are here within our doorstep,” Makinde said.
The governor urged relatives of the abducted children to remain calm and continue praying for their safe return, stressing that public demonstrations were not the best approach at this critical stage.
“This is not the time for protest. The terrorists and the bandits are not normal people. If they had a reasonable head, they wouldn’t be in the bush doing what they are doing. So if we’re protesting, we’re fueling their ego,” he stated.
Makinde explained that security agencies were actively working behind the scenes to secure the release of the victims and tackle the growing threat posed by criminal groups.
He also called on citizens to support ongoing efforts through prayers, expressing hope that the abductors would have a change of heart.
“The heart of the bandit is also in the hands of God. Let us pray to God that He touches their hearts while we are doing our best,” the governor added.
His comments come amid growing public concern over the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State, with calls from some quarters for stronger action and increased security measures to protect schools and communities.
Meanwhile, the protesters nestling at the Oyo government office, Agodi, have insisted that they would not leave the ground for as long as the victims are in captivity.
One of them, who spoke at the protest ground, said: “We have had enough, and until we see them back on safe ground, we shall be here, day and night, so that the government will be proactive and bring back our children.
