OWERRI, Nigeria — Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has fired back at former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose over remarks linking him to recent kidnappings in the state, saying Fayose “needs prayers.”
Prince Dotun Oyelade, Oyo’s Commissioner for Information, issued the response Tuesday, describing Fayose’s accusations as baseless and dangerous. “Nigerians are shocked by Fayose’s comment. He needs prayers,” Oyelade said. “For a former governor to be so consumed by the politics of vindictiveness, vileness, deceit and hate, that he would further endanger the lives of those in captivity and distract security agents from handling this delicate job, smacks of one who has lost his mind.”
Makinde, according to the statement, is focused on tackling the security crisis after dozens of schoolchildren and teachers were abducted in Oriire Local Government Area. Oyelade added that the governor would not be distracted by political attacks.
Fayose, speaking on Channels Television Monday, accused Makinde of failing to respond swiftly to the kidnappings and suggested, without evidence, that the abductions were politically motivated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu. He claimed the incident may have been orchestrated by the state government, sparking fresh political exchanges.
The Oyo government urged residents to remain calm, assuring that efforts were underway to secure the release of those abducted.
The clash between the two governors highlights longstanding tensions in southwestern politics. Fayose, known for his outspoken style, has frequently criticized Makinde’s leadership. Makinde, in turn, has dismissed Fayose’s remarks as attempts to politicize tragedy.
On social media, reactions were swift. Supporters of Makinde praised his focus on security, with one user posting, “This is not the time for politics, we need solutions.” Others sided with Fayose, arguing that the state government had been slow to act. The hashtag #OyoKidnap trended on X, with users demanding accountability and faster rescue operations.
Policy makers and civil society groups also weighed in. Some lawmakers in Oyo State Assembly called Fayose’s comments “reckless,” while rights advocates urged the government to prioritize transparency in its rescue efforts.
The kidnappings in Oyo have intensified calls for stronger security measures and renewed debate over the creation of state police, a proposal that has gained traction in recent months.
