Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has taken to his Facebook page to commend the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area 56 days ago, but conspicuously omitted any mention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his post.
In his Facebook update, Makinde expressed relief over the safe return of the victims, stating that his administration’s priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and receive the necessary support for rehabilitation after their traumatic experience.
He also praised the security agencies involved in the rescue mission, acknowledging their sacrifices and offering prayers for those who lost their lives during the operation.
“Really grateful for the safe return of the children and teachers abducted from Oriire LGA 56 days ago. Our priority now is to ensure they are reunited with their families and support their rehabilitation after this traumatic experience.
We also commend the security agencies that took part in the rescue operations for their sacrifices. May the souls of those who paid the ultimate price rest in peace and may God comfort their families,” Makinde wrote.
However, keen observers were quick to point out that the Governor’s post contained no acknowledgment of the President or the Federal Government, even though the operation reportedly involved military and security agencies under federal command.
The omission follows Makinde’s earlier remarks in Bauchi, where he called out what he perceived as a double standard in how kidnapping cases are treated nationally.
“When Chibok happened, it was the fault of President Jonathan. They went all over the world asking Jonathan to bring back the children. But when the Oyo State abduction happened, they said it was the irresponsibility of the state governor and the state government,” Makinde had said.
His pointed comments, now followed by a thank-you message that sidesteps the President, have fueled speculation that the Oyo Governor is deliberately withholding praise from the current administration.
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