“You Need Prayers” — Makinde Fires Back at Fayose Over Oyo Kidnapping Claims

The Oyo State Government has responded strongly to allegations made by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, over the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in the state, describing his comments as reckless and harmful.

Governor Seyi Makinde, through the state’s Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said Fayose’s remarks were unfortunate at a time when security agencies were working to secure the release of those still in captivity.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Oyelade said the former governor’s comments had surprised many Nigerians and accused him of attempting to politicise a sensitive security issue.

According to the commissioner, Fayose’s conduct showed a troubling level of bitterness and hostility, adding that his remarks could undermine ongoing efforts by security operatives handling the kidnapping case.

“Nigerians are shocked by Fayose’s comment. He needs prayers. For a former governor to be so consumed by the politics of vindictiveness, vileness, deceit and hate, that he would further endanger the lives of those in captivity and distract security agents from handling this delicate job, smacks of one who has lost his mind.

“Governor Makinde is too preoccupied with finding a solution to the challenges posed by the kidnappers of children and teachers in the state to engage someone whose lifestyle and comportment have been suspect over a long time,” the commissioner said.

The state government maintained that its attention remains focused on addressing the security situation and ensuring the safe return of all victims. It urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting the efforts of security agencies.

Oyelade also recalled previous comments allegedly made by Fayose against the Oyo governor, suggesting that the former Ekiti governor had repeatedly sought to drag Makinde into political controversies.

The latest exchange follows comments made by Fayose during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, POLITICS NIGERIA reported. During the interview, the former governor criticised Makinde’s handling of the kidnapping incident and suggested that the abduction may have been politically motivated.

Fayose further alleged, without presenting evidence, that the incident could have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu, a claim that has since generated reactions from political observers and government officials.

The abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area has sparked concern across Oyo State, with many residents calling for stronger security measures to tackle the growing threat of kidnappings.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government insists that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the victims and restore confidence in the state’s security architecture.