The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for the immediate resignation of Governor Seyi Makinde, criticizing his recent comments on the security situation in the state. The opposition party accused Makinde of incompetence and misrepresentation of his constitutional duties regarding security.
Governor Makinde's Remarks Spark Outrage
During his acceptance speech as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Ibadan on May 30, 2026, Makinde stated that he had limited power to rescue abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area because security agencies are under federal control. He urged the federal government to empower state Houses of Assembly to establish state police structures.
The APC, in a statement on May 31 by spokesperson Olawale Sadare, condemned Makinde's comments, saying he has failed to protect lives and property as sworn in the constitution. The party noted that Makinde had previously exercised his office's powers without complaint but now uses the security crisis for political gains ahead of the 2027 elections.
Abduction Crisis in Oyo
Two weeks earlier, terrorists attacked three schools in Oriire LGA, abducting dozens of pupils, including a toddler, and teachers. Teacher Adesiyan Adegboye was killed during the attack, and mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun was brutally murdered in captivity. The abductions triggered widespread outrage and demands for swift rescue.
According to The Punch, suspected terrorists have opened communication channels with the Oyo state government, but it remains unclear whether negotiations are being handled directly by the governor or through representatives.
APC's Strong Reaction
The APC lambasted Makinde, stating: “Makinde could not find any fault in the nation’s Constitution as he gleefully sworn on it twice to protect the lives and properties of the people of the state. He has been using the mightiness of his office to control power, resources and people without any complaints until now that he is faced with a serious challenge which came his way on account of incompetence, cluelessness and ego.”
The party added: “With his latest insensitive comments, Makinde has again unveiled the hypocrisy in him, and it is time he quit the office of the Governor since he has said that he lacked the wherewithal to guarantee the security needs of the residents of the state.”
Protests in Ibadan
Civil society organizations and teachers staged a peaceful protest in Ibadan, demanding urgent government intervention to secure the release of abducted individuals. Reverend Bunmi Thomas, national president of the Nigeria Teachers Congress (NTC), joined the demonstration in solidarity, emphasizing the need for intensified rescue efforts.
The security crisis in Oyo continues to draw attention, with stakeholders calling for effective measures to address the growing threat of terrorism and banditry in the state.
