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In a strong display of inter-state solidarity and political statesmanship, the Governor of Bauchi State, His Excellency Senator Bala Mohammed, on Sunday paid a condolence visit to the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Engineer Seyi Makinde, FNSE, at his private residence in Ibadan, to commiserate with the government and people of Oyo State over the recent abduction of teachers and pupils at Yawota and Esin-ele communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
Governor Mohammed was accompanied by prominent leaders of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), including the National Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, and the party’s governorship candidate in Bauchi State, Dr. Yakubu Adamu. The delegation’s visit underscored the need for unity among political leaders across party lines in confronting Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
While addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting with his host, Governor Mohammed commended Governor Makinde for the swift and decisive steps taken by the Oyo State Government to secure the safe release of the abducted victims. He expressed optimism that ongoing security operations would yield positive results and ensure that the kidnapped teachers and pupils return home safely and unharmed.
“I am here with our leaders from the Allied People’s Movement to commiserate with our presidential candidate and the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, over the painful experience the people and government of Oyo State are currently facing following the abduction of school children and their teachers,” Governor Mohammed stated.
“This has been a lingering national challenge, and we share deeply in the grief of the families and the government. We are here to encourage His Excellency that his commitment to securing the release of these Nigerians has not gone unnoticed. On behalf of myself, the government and the good people of Bauchi State, we stand with Oyo State and pledge our support in every possible way to ensure the early release of the victims.”
Governor Mohammed further noted that the visit also afforded him the opportunity to congratulate Governor Makinde on his emergence as the presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement. He described Makinde as “a jolly good friend, a young man with energy, determination and drive, capable of changing the trajectory of leadership and good governance in Nigeria.”
Turning to the broader issue of insecurity, the Bauchi State Governor called for an urgent and comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture. According to him, achieving lasting safety requires greater commitment, improved synergy among security agencies, and more effective collaboration between security operatives and citizens.
“The security situation we face today is a manifestation of gaps in governance, poverty, and the harsh realities of life,” he said. “Beyond government action, the citizenry must rise to the occasion and take their destiny into their own hands. People must refuse to be used as informants or accomplices to criminal elements. They must also be deliberate in electing credible, competent and compassionate leaders who understand where the shoe pinches.”
Governor Mohammed stressed that leadership at all levels, national, state and local government, must take responsibility for securing lives and property. He urged Nigerians to use the next election cycle as an opportunity to enthrone leaders committed to public welfare, accountability, and sustainable development.
Governor Makinde received Governor Bala Mohammed and his entourage, along with top officials of the Oyo State Government, including the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; the Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola; and the Senior Executive Assistant on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal, among others.
The meeting reinforced the importance of bipartisan cooperation and intelligence sharing in tackling kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes threatening communities across the country. Both governors reaffirmed their commitment to people-oriented governance, community safety and policies that prioritize the welfare of citizens at the grassroots.
The Oyo State Government appreciates the gesture of solidarity from Bauchi State and reiterates its resolve to work closely with federal security agencies, neighboring states and community stakeholders to restore peace and ensure that Oriire Local Government and other affected areas remain safe for residents, farmers and learners.
Signed:
Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju
Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor
June 14, 2026
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