Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has assured residents that the state will not witness a tragedy similar to the infamous Chibok schoolgirls' abduction, as efforts continue to secure the release of pupils and teachers kidnapped in Orire Local Government Area.

The governor made the declaration on Tuesday while addressing demonstrators led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), at his private residence in Ikolaba, Ibadan.

Makinde said his administration remains fully committed to rescuing the victims and would continue to deploy every available resource to ensure their safe return.

The governor emphasized that Oyo State would not allow the abduction to become a prolonged national tragedy, insisting that authorities were working tirelessly to bring the victims home.

“Let me make it very clear, Oyo State is not Chibok and will never become Chibok,” Makinde stated.

Speaking emotionally about the incident, the governor said he would be willing to make personal sacrifices if it meant securing the freedom of the abducted children and teachers.

According to him, protecting the lives of the victims remains a top priority, adding that no effort would be spared in the rescue mission.

Makinde also disclosed that security personnel involved in ongoing operations had paid a heavy price in the course of the rescue efforts.

He revealed that members of the military had suffered casualties, including the death of a Nigerian Army lieutenant during recent operations linked to the search for the abductees.

The governor explained that authorities were proceeding with caution to avoid further loss of lives, stressing that the safety of the victims remained paramount.

He acknowledged that the operation was delicate and required careful planning to prevent additional casualties among both the hostages and rescue personnel.

Addressing the protesters, Makinde expressed understanding of their concerns and defended their right to demand accountability from public officials.

He noted that if he were not serving in government, he would likely share similar frustrations and participate in peaceful advocacy efforts.

The governor further stated that public protests and civic engagement play an important role in strengthening democracy and ensuring leaders remain responsive to the needs of citizens.

While accepting responsibility as the state's chief executive, Makinde pointed out that state governments do not exercise direct control over all security agencies operating within their territories.

Despite those limitations, he assured residents that his administration would continue collaborating with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The protest, which drew a large crowd of supporters and concerned residents, was organized to demand urgent action against insecurity and the safe return of the victims abducted from Orire Local Government Area on May 15.

As rescue efforts continue, many residents remain hopeful that ongoing operations will lead to the safe return of all those still in captivity.