Abductions in Oyo Community Disrupt Families, Makinde Expresses Concern Over Violence

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State said that the abduction of several pupils and students in the Ahoro-Esinele community of Oriire local government area on Friday has devastated many families.

He made the statement during the launch of the State Police’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in Ibadan on Saturday.

The ceremony was hosted by Commissioner of Police Abimbola Olugbenga.

According to DAILY POST, an unspecified number of students were kidnapped from schools in the community on Friday.

The Vice‑Principal of a secondary school in the area was abducted, and a teacher and a motorcyclist were killed.

Makinde said the incident should remind people that security is not the sole responsibility of the government.

He added that social and economic development cannot prosper in a climate of violence and instability, and urged residents to provide information to security agencies so that they can act quickly.

He called on citizens to report any suspicious activity in their surroundings, noting that the creation of the elite unit is timely.

“We have witnessed a series of kidnappings and various violent crimes, including the kidnapping of school children yesterday, which has crumbled many families,” Makinde said.

“This incident reminds us that security cannot be taken for granted. Social and economic development cannot thrive in the absence of peace and stability,” he added.

“The inauguration is timely. Security is not the function of government alone. It is the collective responsibility of all,” he continued.

“We should speak up in a timely manner. I advise the people to be watchful. When you see any suspicious movement, please report it,” he urged.

“May peace and stability continue to prevail in Oyo State and Nigeria.”