Governor Makinde Offers Condolences to Families of Abducted Oyo Pupils on Children’s Day

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reached out to the families of school children and teachers who remain in captivity following a terrorist attack nearly two weeks ago.

His message came as the state joined in the dual observance of Eid-el-Kabir and National Children’s Day.

On May 15, armed bandits raided three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, kidnapping dozens of pupils including toddlers along with their teachers.

A teacher, Adesiyan Adegboye, was killed during the raid, while a Mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was beheaded while in captivity.

These events have sparked widespread outrage and urgent calls for the safe rescue of the remaining hostages.

In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday morning, Makinde acknowledged the pain that affected families are feeling on what should have been a day of joy and family bonding.

He wrote, “As we mark this year’s Eid and Children’s Day, our thoughts are with every family awaiting the return of their loved ones, and with security agencies working to keep our communities safe.”

The governor reassured the public that his administration is actively working to resolve the crisis, adding, “We are working to ensure the safe return of those who were kidnapped in Oriire LGA. May this holy season fill our State with peace.”

According to PUNCH, suspected terrorists have recently opened communication channels with the state government, though it remains unclear whether the governor or a representative is handling the negotiations.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s annual Children’s Day (May 27), dedicated to celebrating and protecting children, coincided this year with the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir festival, a significant Islamic holiday symbolizing sacrifice and faith.