Makinde Fires Back at Fayose Over Kidnap Allegations, Says Ex-Governor Needs Prayers

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged Nigerians to pray for former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose following recent allegations and comments made by the former governor regarding the abduction of students and teachers in the state.

The call was conveyed by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, in a statement issued on Tuesday, as the war of words between both political figures intensified.

Oyelade said Fayose’s remarks had surprised many Nigerians, adding that Governor Makinde remained focused on addressing the state’s security challenges and securing the safe release of the abducted victims.

According to the commissioner, the former governor’s comments could undermine ongoing efforts by security agencies and further complicate attempts to rescue those being held captive by kidnappers.

He stated that Makinde was concentrating on finding solutions to the security situation in Oyo State rather than engaging in political disputes, insisting that the protection of lives and property remained the administration’s priority.

Oyelade also referred to previous statements allegedly made by Fayose concerning political developments in Oyo State, including comments linked to the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

The commissioner urged residents of the state and Nigerians in general to remain calm and hopeful, assuring them that the government was working round the clock to secure the release of the victims and restore confidence in public safety.

Fayose, during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, accused Makinde of failing to respond swiftly to the kidnapping incident and alleged, without providing evidence, that the abductions were politically motivated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu. He further suggested that the incident may have been orchestrated by the state government, claims that have since generated fresh political reactions.