Fayose Blames Makinde for Oyo School Kidnappings, Says Governor Failed on Security

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has accused Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, of failing to take proactive steps to curb insecurity, insisting that the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in the state could have been prevented.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Fayose maintained that governors bear the primary responsibility for coordinating security efforts within their states, despite the Federal Government’s role in supporting security agencies.

According to him, state governments have the authority to mobilise the police, coordinate intelligence gathering and strengthen local security networks to respond effectively to emerging threats.

“I stand by my words. Seyi Makinde was not proactive enough. The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo is a problem caused by Governor Seyi Makinde,” Fayose said.

He argued that while the Federal Government oversees national security architecture, governors must take the lead in protecting lives and property within their jurisdictions.

The former governor also expressed concern over the rising wave of kidnappings across the country, alleging that the crime had become commercialised in some areas, with some public officials and even relatives of victims reportedly benefiting from ransom payments.

Fayose said his criticism of the Oyo State Government was based on his assessment of its handling of kidnapping incidents, particularly around the Ogbomoso axis.

Recalling his time in office as governor of Ekiti State, he said he implemented strict anti-open grazing measures, including restrictions on the movement of cattle at night, as part of efforts to improve security.

He insisted that state governments possess sufficient powers to introduce policies aimed at safeguarding residents and protecting livelihoods.

Fayose also defended his earlier comments on the installation of traditional rulers in Oyo State, saying public office holders, including governors, should be willing to accept criticism as part of democratic governance.