Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has alleged that the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State was orchestrated by the state government. Speaking on Channels TV on Monday, June 1, Fayose expressed a strong suspicion that Governor Seyi Makinde's administration staged the kidnapping to damage the reputation of President Bola Tinubu.
Fayose noted that Makinde had been focused on political nominations and only visited the victims' families after concluding his political rally, suggesting a lack of genuine concern. This is not the first time Fayose has leveled such accusations; he previously claimed that Makinde received N50 billion from the federal government to compensate victims of the Ibadan explosion, a figure the state government later revised to N30 billion.
The allegations have drawn mixed reactions from Nigerians. Social media users like Ola Apinke criticized Makinde's demeanor, comparing it unfavorably to governors of Kebbi and Niger states during similar crises. Jerry Abimbola questioned the use of security votes, while Omotola defended Fayose, stating he has consistently been accurate about Makinde's actions.
Fayose's comments have reignited debates about security and political accountability in Oyo State, with many calling for swift action to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
