Makinde vows Oyo will not become “another Chibok,” promises rescue of abducted pupils

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed that the state “will not become another Chibok,” as he assured residents that ongoing efforts to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area will end successfully.

The governor made the statement on Tuesday while addressing protesters led by social media activist, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), who gathered at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan, to demand urgent action over rising insecurity in the state.

Makinde, speaking emotionally, said his administration remained fully committed to ensuring the safe return of the victims, stressing that Oyo State would not suffer a repeat of the 2014 Chibok schoolgirls’ tragedy.

“Let me make it very, very clear: Oyo State is not Chibok and we will not be Chibok,” the governor said, adding that security operatives had already paid a price in the rescue efforts, including the death of a military officer.

He noted that the operation had been complicated by the sensitivity of the situation, particularly because the victims were children.

The governor, however, admitted the limitations of state governments in controlling security agencies, explaining that operational control of police and military units remains under federal command.

While acknowledging public frustration, Makinde commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct, describing civic engagement as an important part of democratic accountability.

He further disclosed that intelligence efforts were ongoing and assured that no official information suggested the death of any of the abducted pupils or teachers.

According to him, the rescue mission remains active, delicate, and requires strategic caution to avoid further casualties.

Activist VeryDarkMan, who led the protest, demanded transparency and immediate action, expressing concern over the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the victims’ fate.

He said Nigerians were worried due to lack of clear communication from authorities, insisting that the government must provide a clear roadmap for rescue efforts.

Makinde, in response, pledged that the state would continue working with security agencies until the victims are safely returned, adding that lessons would be learnt to prevent future occurrences.