Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the release of 46 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, declaring that he would be willing to sacrifice himself to ensure their safe return.
The governor made the emotional declaration 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 protest was organized in response to growing concerns over insecurity and the continued captivity of the schoolchildren and their teachers.
Addressing the demonstrators, Makinde assured residents that Oyo State would not witness a tragedy similar to the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction, stressing that every available effort was being deployed to rescue the victims.
“Oyo State is not Chibok, and we will never be Chibok,” the governor stated.
Makinde revealed that security personnel involved in the rescue operation had made significant sacrifices, including the loss of military officers in the line of duty.
“We have lost men, including soldiers and officers. A lieutenant in the Nigerian Army was killed a few days ago during efforts to rescue the victims,” he disclosed.
In a passionate appeal, the governor said he would not hesitate to make personal sacrifices if it meant bringing the children home safely.
“If you ask me whether I can sacrifice myself for those children to come out alive, I will do it. I have lived a good life and our children will never face the fate of the Chibok girls,” he said.
He explained that authorities were proceeding cautiously to avoid further casualties, noting that one teacher had already lost his life in the ordeal.
Makinde also expressed understanding for the concerns raised by protesters, saying citizens have every right to demand accountability from their leaders.
“If I were not in government, I would probably be protesting with you. I understand your concerns and I have nothing against what you are doing,” he told the crowd.
While accepting responsibility as governor, Makinde pointed to constitutional limitations that restrict state governments from directly controlling federal security agencies, despite working closely with security chiefs within their jurisdictions.
The governor reiterated that security remains a top priority of his administration, highlighting the establishment of the Amotekun Corps as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture.
Earlier, VeryDarkMan said the protest aimed to draw attention to the plight of the abducted pupils and teachers and to press authorities to intensify rescue efforts.
He lamented the lack of information about the victims’ condition, expressing fears over their safety after more than a month in captivity.
The activist called for urgent action and greater transparency, insisting that families and residents deserve assurances that every possible step is being taken to secure the victims’ release.
