Oyo Governor links school abduction to 2027 presidential declaration

Makinde, who made the remark while addressing a meeting in Bauchi, noted that Oyo State had not experienced a similar incident during his seven years in office before the May 15 attack. He formally declared his presidential ambition on May 14 at a joint rally in Ibadan, aiming to "reset Nigeria," and later emerged as the presidential candidate for the Allied Peoples Movement. Hours after Makinde's comments, the Presidency announced that all victims were rescued after 56 days in captivity through a joint operation involving the military, Department of State Services, and police.

Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are in DSS custody, while others were neutralized. The Presidency confirmed that no negotiation or exchange took place despite the abductors' demand for a detained kingpin's release. Following the rescue, Makinde expressed relief and thanked President Tinubu and security agencies for securing the victims' freedom, describing it as a "big relief" for the families and people of Oyo State.

President Tinubu also commended the security agencies and directed emergency agencies to provide medical care and support to the rescued individuals.