IBADAN, Nigeria — A Nigerian diaspora group has praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his swift response to the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing his actions as decisive leadership in a time of crisis.
The Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora (OID), a professional group of Nigerians abroad, commended Makinde for signing Executive Order 001 of 2026, which strengthens regulation and coordination of local security services. In a statement signed by spokesperson Barrister Ayotomiwa Adebayo, the group said the governor’s intervention showed he was prioritizing public safety above politics.
OID expressed solidarity with the people of Oyo State and extended sympathies to the families of the abducted victims. It also applauded the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies involved in the rescue operations, urging them to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice regardless of ethnic, religious, or regional affiliations.
Reactions quickly followed across Nigeria. Many social media users praised Makinde’s quick action, with one writing, “This is the kind of leadership we need, proactive, not reactive.” Others urged the governor to sustain reforms beyond the immediate crisis. Lawmakers in Abuja welcomed the move, noting that Executive Order 001 could serve as a model for other states. “State-level coordination is vital if we are to tackle insecurity effectively,” one senator said. Advocacy groups described the abduction as a reminder of Nigeria’s fragile security environment, with one activist adding, “Makinde’s response is commendable, but the federal government must step up with systemic reforms.”
OID also called on the Federal Government to prioritize citizens’ safety by establishing state police, improving intelligence gathering, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, and deploying modern technology to combat crime. The group warned that persistent kidnappings and attacks on schools threaten Nigeria’s democracy and erode public confidence.
“It is evident that these acts of banditry are placing immense pressure on the nation’s unity, peace, and security. We urge all Nigerians to unite against banditry, which has become a common enemy and a grave threat to national stability,” the statement read.
The diaspora group expressed optimism that ongoing rescue efforts would lead to the safe return of the abducted students and teachers, reaffirming its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, unity, and sustainable development in Oyo State and across Nigeria.
