FAYOSE, BURY YOUR HEAD IN SHAME: Retract Your False Allegation Against Governor Seyi Makinde Over the Oriire Abduction || By Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

The successful rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State should mark the end of speculation and the triumph of truth over unfounded allegations.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, owes Governor Seyi Makinde, the people of Oyo State, and Nigerians a public apology and an unreserved retraction over his claim that the abduction was allegedly orchestrated by the Oyo State Government for political purposes. Such a grave accusation demanded credible evidence, not political rhetoric.

The rescue of the victims by security agencies has exposed the allegation as unsubstantiated and has reaffirmed the need for public office holders to exercise responsibility in their utterances.

The renowned psychologist Carl Jung once said, “Thinking is difficult, that’s why most people judge.” His words remain relevant today, reminding us that rash conclusions often stem from prejudice rather than evidence.

Likewise, social psychologist Gustave Le Bon warned that repeated assertions, even without proof, can mislead the public. This is why influential personalities must ensure that their statements are factual and capable of standing the test of scrutiny.

The Holy Bible leaves no room for false accusations:

> “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.” — Exodus 20:16

It further declares:

> “A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.” — Proverbs 19:9

The Scriptures also reassure God’s people:

> “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against you in judgment you shall condemn.” — Isaiah 54:17

Indeed, whom God has blessed, no man can curse or bring down through falsehood.

The Holy Qur’an equally commands believers to verify information before making judgments:

> “O you who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with news, verify it, lest you harm people in ignorance and afterward become regretful for what you have done.” — Qur’an 49:6 (Surah Al-Hujurat)

It also warns:

> “Do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart—about all those one will be questioned.” — Qur’an 17:36 (Surah Al-Isra)

These teachings from both the Bible and the Qur’an make one truth abundantly clear: truth must always prevail over propaganda.

Politics should never blind anyone to the pain of innocent schoolchildren, teachers, and their families. At a time when the entire nation should have united in prayer and support for the victims, baseless allegations only served to distract attention from the real task of securing their release.

Today, the facts have spoken louder than speculation. The victims have been rescued, suspects have been arrested, and the security agencies deserve commendation—not conspiracy theories.

As often attributed to Abraham Lincoln, “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time.”

The rescue of the Oriire abductees has vindicated Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to security and exposed the danger of making allegations without evidence.

Mr. Fayose, the honourable thing to do now is simple: retract your allegation, apologise to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State, and allow truth to take its rightful place in public discourse.

— Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

Publisher, Tumite News