The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has taken a swipe at traditional and spiritual practitioners over the abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire LGA, Oyo State.

According to him, since they often boast of having charms, now is the time to put it to good use by going out to rescue the schoolchildren abducted by terrorists.

“All the Babalawo, Araba, and Alfas that always boast of all kinds of charms, the time is now to use your powers to rescue the abducted children of Oriire LGA. Even if you don’t have money, I will give you. Or is it only charms to do wicked things to people that you have?” he asked.

Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that the state will avoid a tragedy like the Chibok schoolgirls' abduction, committing to doing everything possible to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.

During a public engagement, he stated he is willing to make personal sacrifices if needed to bring the victims home.

“I am also distressed because I have children of my own. I am also distressed with what has happened to our children. Because of the nature of the security situation, I cannot divulge a lot of information, but I can tell you that because it’s a rescue operation, this is the first time anywhere in Nigeria that they have abducted kids from both nursery and primary school.

“These are children that cannot even run or do anything for themselves. So the operation to rescue them is a sensitive one, and we don’t want to lose any of the children. But I give you the assurance that I, as the governor of Oyo State, by God’s grace, we will bring out those our children.

“They are talking to us; it’s just that if government starts negotiating with bandits, it means we are encouraging them. It needs a special operation to bring those children alive. Once the children are out, I give you the assurance that we will not suffer such a thing again,” the governor said.

Makinde further lamented the prolonged absence of the affected pupils and teachers from school, assuring that government would not relent until they are rescued.

“I am also disturbed by the current condition of our schoolchildren and teachers, who have been out of school for over one month. I assure you that, as the governor, we will rescue them,” he added.

His words have received widespread praise, with many Nigerians commending his dedication and calling on authorities to enhance security in schools and communities.

As rescue efforts go on, families and residents remain hopeful for the safe return of the abducted individuals.