“I can sacrifice myself for the release of abducted children” — Governor Seyi Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has said he is willing to put his own life on the line if it would help secure the freedom of pupils and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The governor made the remark on Tuesday while addressing a peaceful group of protesters led by social commentator Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, at his residence in Ibadan.

The protest was organised to draw attention to the plight of the abducted victims and urge authorities to intensify rescue efforts.

The demonstration comes amid growing concern over the fate of the kidnapped children and teachers, whose abduction has sparked widespread public discussion across Oyo State and beyond.

While responding to requests from some protesters who offered to join rescue operations, Makinde said security agencies were already working with intelligence available to them and remained focused on securing the victims’ safe return.

Speaking on the situation, the governor declared:

“I can sacrifice myself for the release of the abducted children; I am almost 60 years old.”

He also expressed confidence that the current security strategy could lead to the victims’ rescue without further loss of life.

Makinde said information available to the government suggests there have been no additional casualties among the abductees since the earlier killing of a Mathematics teacher during the incident.

The governor maintained that negotiating with kidnappers was not the preferred option and reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies until the victims are reunited with their families.

VeryDarkMan also pledged support for ongoing efforts, saying he and other young people were prepared to volunteer in the fight against kidnapping and insecurity.

The governor’s comments have since generated reactions online, with many Nigerians discussing his remarks and calling for the safe return of the abducted children and teachers.