Oyo Is Not Chibok – Seyi Makinde Makes Vow Amidst Abduction Crisis

The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has vowed that the state would never experience a tragedy similar to Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction.

Naija News reports that Makinde gave the assurance on Tuesday while addressing protesters led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan.

The governor expressed readiness to sacrifice himself to secure release of the 46 pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government of the state on May 15.

Addressing the demonstrators, the governor said his administration was fully committed to securing the release of the victims and would spare no effort in achieving that objective.

“Let me make it very, very clear, Oyo State is not Chibok and we will not be Chibok,” Makinde declared.

He disclosed that security operatives had made sacrifices in the ongoing rescue efforts, including the loss of military personnel.

“We have lost men, even soldiers and officers, and I can confirm to you that a lieutenant in the Nigerian Army was killed a few days ago,” he said.

In an emotional appeal, Makinde stated that he was prepared to make personal sacrifices if it would guarantee the safe return of the children.

“If you ask me, can I sacrifice myself for those children to come out? I will do it. I have lived a good life, I’m almost 60 and it doesn’t matter. Our children will never be in the same situation as Chibok children,” he said.

The governor acknowledged the delicate nature of the rescue mission, noting that authorities were proceeding cautiously to prevent additional casualties.

“We’ve lost a teacher already. If we can avoid losing more, we will avoid losing more, but if we get to the point that certain people have to be sacrificed, including myself, we will do it,” he added.

Makinde also expressed support for the protesters’ right to demand accountability, saying he understood their concerns.

“If I am not in government, I will be you; I’ll be protesting with you. I do not have anything against what you are doing,” he said.

According to him, protests and civic engagement remain important tools for holding leaders accountable and ensuring responsive governance.

While accepting responsibility as governor, Makinde pointed to constitutional limitations on the powers of state governments over security agencies.

“I will not shift blame. Our reality is that the state government is not in charge of all the security agencies,” he said.