New information has surfaced regarding the successful rescue of victims abducted in the Orire kidnapping incident in Oyo State.

According to an anonymous source, security agencies carried out a series of arrests of family members linked to suspected Ansarul terrorists across several states including Katsina, Sokoto, Adamawa, Borno, and Zamfara. These operations reportedly played a key role in gathering intelligence that led to the victims’ release.

The source claimed that Governor Seyi Makinde was not informed about the rescue operation. It was also alleged that communication between the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government worsened after the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Honourable Ogundoyin, initially announced that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom, a claim later reportedly denied by the abductors themselves.

Security authorities in Abuja are said to have placed Governor Seyi Makinde under increased scrutiny due to his reported relationship with a governor from Nigeria’s North-East who is currently under investigation for alleged sponsorship of terrorism. The source further claimed that the leader of Miyetti Allah, Mr. Bello Bodejo, was recently arraigned in court over allegations of receiving money meant for terrorists from the same governor. These claims are still being contested in an Abuja court.

Observers believe the once-close relationship between Governor Seyi Makinde and President Bola Tinubu has cooled. Whether this situation is temporary or permanent remains unclear. Many have suggested that respected Yoruba traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, should intervene to help mend ties in the interest of national unity and regional stability.

Despite the reported tensions, the successful rescue of the victims remains a positive development worthy of celebration. Gratitude has been expressed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, and all those involved in the operation. The source also appealed to President Tinubu to secure the release of two groups of abducted students from Borno State, including very young children, who remain in captivity. One group was taken in May and the other in June while sitting for WAEC examinations.

Nigerians are hopeful that these innocent children will soon be reunited with their families.

Photo credit: RIA OF IBADAN