The Oyo State Government has accused former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, of making statements capable of distracting ongoing efforts to rescue abducted teachers and pupils in the state, insisting that its priority remains the safe return of the victims.
The Commissioner for Information in the state Prince Dotun Oyelade, in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday said Governor Seyi Makinde is fully focused on addressing the security challenge posed by the recent abduction and has no interest in trading political words with the former governor.
The Commissioner criticized Fayose over what he described as a series of unfounded allegations against the governor, arguing that such comments could undermine ongoing security operations and efforts being put in place to rescue the victims.
According to the state government, the former Ekiti governor’s recent remarks reflect a pattern of hostility and political bitterness in him , which it said could negatively affect efforts to secure the release of those still being held captive.
Oyelade also linked Fayose’s comments to earlier political statements allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, claiming that recent developments appear connected to threats previously directed at Oyo State’s political leadership.
He further recalled an allegation made by Fayose earlier in the year that Governor Makinde was plotting to remove the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, describing the claim as false and part of a broader campaign to discredit the governor.
While urging residents to disregard what it termed misinformation, the Oyo State Government said Governor Makinde remains committed to securing the release of the abducted teachers and pupils. It also noted that President Bola Tinubu has publicly commended the governor’s handling of the situation and appealed to Nigerians to remain hopeful and supportive of ongoing rescue efforts.