The Presidency has responded to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over his comments on the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, insisting that President Bola Tinubu acted swiftly to secure their release.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media, Otega Ogra, said the Federal Government immediately deployed military and intelligence assets to Oyo State following the incident.
Ogra, in a post on his X handle, said the operations led to the successful rescue of all the abducted children and teachers on July 10, 2026.
His response followed Makinde’s disclosure during an interview that he did not speak with President Tinubu throughout the over 50 days the victims were held captive, despite attempts to reach the President through his aide.
Addressing the governor directly, Ogra said the federal government remained focused on its mandate to secure and prosper Nigeria under President Tinubu.
He maintained that the President prioritised concrete action and results over political point-scoring in addressing security challenges.
According to him, the administration has introduced measures to strengthen the country’s security architecture, including the creation of a new Homeland Security position, improved coordination under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and better equipment and remuneration for the military.
He added that the government had also improved welfare across the security and intelligence agencies.
On Makinde’s comments regarding the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ogra stressed that the anti-graft agency remained independent and carried out its statutory responsibilities without political interference.
He said President Tinubu had consistently maintained a non-interference policy regarding agencies and regulatory bodies with statutory independence.
Ogra, however, criticised the governor’s comments, urging him to concentrate on governance and issue-based campaigning.
“In my opinion, sir, political leaders like your good self should prioritise governance or focus on issues-based campaigning rather than such grandstanding that is now becoming the hallmark of your campaign,” he said.