The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to be compassionate toward former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, amid recent political exchanges, describing him as someone who should rather be pitied than condemned.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who said Nigerians were shocked by what he described as a series of unguarded and unfounded allegations reportedly made by the former governor.
According to the statement, Makinde said he remains focused on addressing the security situation in the state, particularly the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, and would not be distracted by political distractions.
“Governor Seyi Makinde is too preoccupied with finding solutions to the challenges posed by kidnappers of children and teachers in the state to engage someone whose lifestyle and comportment have been suspect over a long time,” the statement read.
Oyelade further alleged that Fayose’s recent remarks were part of a pattern of politically motivated accusations that could undermine ongoing security efforts.
He also referenced past comments credited to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who once threatened to “put fire in Oyo State,” suggesting that recent developments were consistent with earlier political tensions.
The statement further recalled that Fayose had earlier alleged that Governor Makinde was plotting against the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing the claim as false.
“These false allegations and many others are sufficient to confirm their motive,” Oyelade said.
The commissioner noted that President Bola Tinubu had on two separate occasions commended Governor Makinde’s handling of the recent kidnapping incident, insisting that the administration remained committed to securing the release of the abducted victims.
He urged residents of Oyo State and Nigerians generally to remain calm and hopeful, adding that government efforts to rescue the victims were ongoing.
“Governor Makinde has been working day and night to secure the release of the abducted children and teachers,” the statement added.
