Fresh details have emerged from a source who requested anonymity regarding the circumstances surrounding the successful rescue of the victims abducted in the Orire kidnapping incident.
According to the source, security agencies allegedly arrested family members of suspected Ansarul terrorists, one after another, across Katsina, Sokoto, Adamawa, Borno, Zamfara, and other states as part of intelligence-gathering efforts that reportedly contributed to the successful rescue of the victims.
The source further claimed that Governor Seyi Makinde was not informed about the rescue operation that eventually led to the victims’ release.
It was also alleged that communication between the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government deteriorated after the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Ogundoyin, initially announced that the terrorists had demanded a ransom—a claim that was later reportedly denied by the kidnappers themselves.
According to the same source, security authorities in Abuja have allegedly placed Governor Seyi Makinde under increased security scrutiny because of his reported relationship with a governor from Nigeria’s North-East who is said to be under investigation over allegations of sponsoring terrorism.
The source also alleged that the leader of Miyetti Allah, Mr. Bello Bodejo, was arraigned in court last week over allegations of receiving money allegedly meant for terrorists from the same governor. These allegations are currently being contested before a court in Abuja.
In the opinion of the source, the once-close relationship between Governor Seyi Makinde and President Bola Tinubu is no longer what it used to be. Whether this situation is temporary or permanent remains unclear. However, many observers believe that close cooperation between both governments is essential to maintaining peace and security in the country. It has therefore been suggested that respected Yoruba traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, should intervene to help foster reconciliation in the interest of national unity and regional stability.
Regardless of political differences or divergent opinions, the successful rescue of the victims is a development worthy of celebration and gratitude. Above all, we give thanks to Almighty God for preserving their lives and granting them freedom. Congratulations to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, and everyone who contributed to the successful operation that led to the victims’ rescue.
Like Oliver Twist, I humbly appeal to President Bola Tinubu to also secure the rescue and release of the two groups of abducted students from Borno State, including children as young as three years old, who remain in captivity. The first group was abducted in May, around the same time as the Oyo schoolchildren, while the second group was kidnapped in June as they sat for their WAEC examinations.
Mr. President, Nigerians will be deeply grateful when these innocent children are safely reunited with their families.
Mogaji Wole Arisekola writes from Ibadan.
