Makinde’s Aides, Christian Leaders Hold Intercessory Prayers for Oriire Abduction Victims

*…Rally Support for Rescue Efforts*

Christian leaders and aides to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde held a special intercessory prayer session Thursday for the safe release of pupils, teachers, and others abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.

The event, held at the Oyo State Government House Chapel, was convened to rally support for ongoing security efforts and seek divine intervention for the victims’ rescue and safe return.

In his welcome address, Convener and Executive Assistant on Administration and Human Resources to the Governor, Rev. Idowu Ogedengbe, cited biblical passages on victory and deliverance. He said the gathering was called to support the government and security forces and demonstrate spiritual backing for the rescue efforts.

“We are here to seek God’s divine intervention and show spiritual support for the ongoing mission to secure the safe release of the abducted students and teachers,” Ogedengbe said.

The prayer session brought together members of the Christian community, fathers of faith, and top government officials amid growing concerns over the victims’ fate and worsening security challenges.

Ogedengbe urged residents to remain hopeful and continue supporting security agencies.

He told journalists the intercession reflected the Christian community’s commitment to stand with affected families and back initiatives to restore peace in the state.

Speaking at the event, Oyo State PFN Chairman Rev. Samson Ajetomobi said the meeting was organized to seek divine intervention, stressing that human lives must not be politicized.

“The concern for today’s meeting is the kidnapped children and teachers. Oyo State has enjoyed relative peace over the years. This is not something we are accustomed to,” he said. “We must not politicize human lives. We must value lives and unite in seeking God’s intervention for their safe rescue.”

Addressing claims that religious leaders have been silent on insecurity, Ajetomobi said faith leaders have engaged government officials behind the scenes while offering spiritual support. 

“No genuine father of faith can be comfortable with the state of the nation. The truth is being spoken to those in authority. We are all affected. The fathers of faith are not indifferent. We are offering counsel, praying, and engaging government at different levels,” he said.

Oyo State CAN Chairman Rev. Ogundiya Elisha said Christian leaders have provided moral support to affected families through visits, counseling, and encouragement since the abduction. He said CAN delegations had visited communities and parents to pray with them and reassure them they were not alone.

The prayer session comes as security agencies intensify rescue efforts following the abduction of pupils, teachers, and residents in Oriire LGA.

The religious leaders appealed to residents to avoid spreading unverified information that could undermine security efforts. They urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and continue praying for the victims’ safe return. 

They also called for national unity in tackling insecurity, saying the challenge requires collective action from government, security agencies, religious institutions, and citizens.

Former Oyo CAN Chairman and retired Colonel, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju, expressed confidence in prayer, citing King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles as an example of divine intervention through collective worship.

“There is nothing prayer cannot do. We believe that when God’s people come together in faith and call upon Him, He hears and responds. We are trusting God for the safe release of these children and their teachers,” he said.

Drawing from his military background, Akinyemiju described the abduction as a delicate security challenge requiring careful handling to avoid casualties.

“Military action must be carefully calibrated because the safety of the children and teachers remains paramount. We must pray that God grants wisdom to the security agencies and government officials handling the rescue mission,” he said.

He called for greater intelligence-sharing and suggested the Federal Government explore international partnerships and advanced technologies to strengthen rescue operations. He urged security personnel to remain patriotic and committed despite challenges.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole, said the gathering brought together government officials, religious leaders, schoolchildren, and stakeholders who believe in prayer and collective action in crisis.

He said residents remain resolute and that criminal elements would not be allowed to destabilize the peace Oyo State has enjoyed.

He described the incident as unfortunate and unprecedented in the state’s recent history under Governor Makinde. He criticized attempts to politicize the security situation, insisting the government and security agencies are working tirelessly for the victims’ safe return.

Akinwole said security agencies had made significant progress, with some collaborators reportedly arrested. He said authorities are intensifying efforts to bring perpetrators to justice while prioritizing the safety of those still in captivity.

He appealed to families of the victims to remain patient, acknowledging their pain and anxiety. He noted that rescue operations are delicate and require intelligence-driven strategies to avoid jeopardizing lives.

“As a parent myself, I understand the agony they are going through. The process may be difficult and technical, but we must allow security agencies the time and space required to carry out their operations successfully. We are optimistic that by the grace of God, these victims will return safely and we shall all gather again to offer thanksgiving,” he said.