A grieving woman has made a heartfelt appeal to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, urging him to intensify efforts toward securing the release of her daughter-in-law, four grandchildren, and other victims abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The emotional plea was made on Saturday during the governor’s visit to the affected community, where residents and relatives of the kidnapped victims gathered to express their concerns and seek government intervention.
Fighting back tears, the elderly woman narrated her ordeal, revealing that several members of her family remain in the custody of the abductors. She specifically identified her daughter-in-law as one of the victims featured in a viral video that has circulated widely on social media since the incident occurred.
“Please have mercy on us. My daughter-in-law and four grandchildren are among the kidnapped victims. My daughter-in-law is the woman carrying a baby on her back, who spoke in a viral video. She is a teacher,” she said.
The abduction occurred after heavily armed men reportedly stormed schools and nearby communities within the Esiele and Yawota axis of Oriire Local Government Area. During the attack, several teachers, pupils, and residents were taken away, sparking widespread outrage and anxiety across the state.
Families of the victims have continued to mount pressure on government authorities and security agencies, demanding swift action to secure the freedom of their loved ones.
The grandmother’s appeal reflects the growing frustration and emotional trauma being experienced by relatives who have spent days awaiting positive news regarding the whereabouts of those held captive.
Also speaking during the governor’s visit was the husband of Mrs. Rachael Alamu, the Principal of Community High School, Esiele, who is among those abducted during the attack.
He appealed directly to Governor Makinde, acknowledging the efforts already made by the state government while urging authorities not to lose momentum in the rescue operation.
“I’m the husband of the principal of Community High School, Esiele, who was kidnapped by gunmen… we know your efforts since the incident occurred,” he said.
The visibly distressed husband noted that the emotional toll on affected families has continued to increase, especially as videos featuring some of the victims continue to surface online.
According to him, his wife has repeatedly appeared in videos released by the kidnappers, a situation he described as deeply painful and emotionally exhausting for family members.
“All our people being held captive… please don’t get tired, sir. It is my wife who they have been using to make videos being spread around. It is very disheartening and depressing,” he added.
Despite the difficult circumstances, he expressed confidence in Governor Makinde’s leadership and ability to ensure that the victims are eventually rescued and reunited with their families.
The abduction has heightened concerns about security in parts of Oyo State, particularly in rural communities where schools and residents have increasingly become targets of criminal activities.
Governor Makinde’s visit to the affected area was aimed at reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to securing the release of the victims and restoring confidence in the state’s security architecture.
Although officials have remained cautious about revealing operational details, authorities insist that efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of all those abducted.
The Oyo State Government and security agencies have yet to provide additional information regarding the progress of rescue operations. However, residents and family members continue to hope that sustained pressure and coordinated security efforts will lead to the successful release of the captives.
As anxiety grows among affected families, calls have intensified for stronger security measures to prevent similar incidents and protect vulnerable communities from future attacks.
