A prominent Yoruba traditional ruler, HSM Aare Oba Dr. Amb. Adeyemi, the Oba Ede ati Asa Ile Yoruba, has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over the government’s handling of the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
Speaking in an interview published by FeelRightNews TV on Monday, July 13, 2026, Adeyemi questioned the reported decision to delay aggressive search operations until further government directives were issued. He argued that kidnapping cases require immediate action to improve the chances of rescuing victims safely.
The monarch said security operations should not be slowed by bureaucratic procedures, insisting that all available resources should be deployed promptly whenever lives are at risk.
Adeyemi also referred to Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Igboho, recalling reports that he allegedly spent about ₦1 million daily on fuel while moving through forests. He contrasted that with what he described as the government’s cautious approach during the Oriire abduction.
“Sunday Igboho used ₦1 million daily for fuel while in the bush, but Governor Seyi Makinde asked them not to search for those students and to wait for a government directive,” he said.
Addressing speculation over the victims’ release, Adeyemi urged Nigerians to consider the emotional burden on parents of the abducted children, noting that many would do whatever they could to secure their loved ones’ freedom.
He also commended the Nigerian military for its sacrifices in the fight against insecurity, saying security personnel deserve greater public recognition. As an example, he cited a recent operation in Borno State in which troops reportedly killed about 120 bandits, attributing the success to improved equipment provided under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff.
The traditional ruler called on Nigerians to continue supporting security personnel while urging government authorities to respond swiftly and effectively whenever lives are threatened.
