The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to resign over what it described as his failure to tackle the worsening insecurity across the state, particularly the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
The opposition party’s demand follows remarks by Governor Makinde in which he stated that governors have limited authority over security agencies despite being referred to as Chief Security Officers of their states. Makinde argued that the centralized nature of Nigeria’s security architecture restricts the ability of governors to effectively direct security operations.
However, the APC rejected the governor’s position, accusing him of attempting to shift responsibility at a time when residents are facing increasing threats from kidnappers and other criminal elements. The party insisted that Makinde must be held accountable for the safety of lives and property in Oyo State.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC described the governor’s comments as disappointing and indicative of a lack of leadership. The party argued that rather than offering explanations, the administration should be focused on delivering practical solutions to the security challenges confronting the state.
The opposition further maintained that the continued abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area, alongside other reported incidents of violent crime, underscores what it called the failure of the current administration to guarantee public safety. It claimed that fear and uncertainty have continued to spread among residents as insecurity persists.
The APC also urged Governor Makinde to step aside and allow his deputy to complete the remaining period of the administration if he believes he lacks the powers necessary to effectively secure the state.
The latest exchange comes amid growing concern over the fate of abducted teachers and pupils in Oyo State. The crisis has already prompted the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to declare an indefinite strike across public schools, while labour groups, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens continue to demand urgent action from the government and security agencies.
As the political blame game intensifies, many residents remain focused on one pressing issue—the safe and immediate rescue of the abducted victims and the restoration of security across Oyo State.
