Heroic Rescue! Kwara PDP Praises Governor Makinde's Swift Action in Oriire Kidnapping

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has extended commendation to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for the successful operation that led to the rescue of 49 schoolchildren and teachers abducted in the Oriire Local Government Area. The party described this achievement as a definitive testament to responsive leadership and effective collaboration between the government and security agencies. Congratulating the government and people of Oyo State on the safe return of the victims, the Kwara PDP stated that the rescue was a direct outcome of sustained citizen engagement, consistent media advocacy, and the proactive leadership demonstrated by the Makinde administration.

According to the party, Governor Makinde exemplified responsible leadership by interpreting public criticism and expressions of concern not as an affront, but rather as an imperative call to intensify efforts towards securing the victims’ freedom. In a statement signed by its publicity secretary, Olusegun Adewara, the Kwara PDP highlighted that the successful rescue in Oyo State was made possible because Governor Makinde made the crisis a paramount priority and worked closely with the federal government and various security agencies until the victims regained their liberty.

The statement further detailed that throughout the challenging period, Governor Makinde embraced public criticism and demands for greater action as an integral part of the burden of leadership. Rather than treating concerned citizens as adversaries, he acknowledged their concerns, personally engaged with protestors, clearly explained the government’s efforts, and reassured them that all necessary steps were being undertaken to ensure the victims’ freedom. This approach fostered transparency and trust, contributing significantly to the resolution of the crisis.

However, the Kwara PDP expressed profound lamentation over the ongoing plight of 176 residents from Woro community in Kwara State, who have remained in captivity since their abduction on February 3, 2026. The party emphatically stressed that the continued ordeal of these victims demands similar urgency and an unwavering commitment from the Kwara State government. The opposition party urged Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to emulate the effective approach adopted by his Oyo State counterpart by making the rescue of the abducted Woro residents and all other kidnapping victims across the state an immediate priority.

The Kwara PDP concluded by emphasizing that the prolonged captivity of these victims underscores a critical need for stronger collaboration among security agencies, government officials, and local communities. Such strengthened cooperation is vital for effectively tackling insecurity throughout the state and ensuring the safe return of all individuals still held by their abductors, mirroring the successful outcome witnessed in Oyo State.