Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called on Nigerians to pray for former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, following his recent controversial political statements.
The appeal was contained in a statement released on Tuesday by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
According to the statement, Fayose’s recent remarks have generated shock and concern, with the state government describing them as false, misleading, and capable of worsening an already sensitive security situation in Oyo State.
The commissioner noted that many Nigerians were taken aback by the former governor’s comments and said Fayose appears to need prayers based on the tone and direction of his recent public outbursts.
He explained that Governor Makinde is currently fully focused on addressing the security challenges in the state, especially efforts aimed at securing the release of kidnapped schoolchildren and teachers, rather than engaging in political exchanges.
“Many Nigerians are shocked by Fayose’s comment. He needs prayers. It is unfortunate that a former governor would make statements that could endanger ongoing rescue efforts and distract security agencies from their work,” the statement read.
Oyelade added that the governor remains committed to restoring peace and ensuring the safe return of all victims, stressing that the government is working closely with security agencies around the clock.
He also referenced earlier claims allegedly made by Fayose linking the governor to political tensions in the state and to the recent abduction incident in Oriire Local Government Area, describing such claims as baseless.
The statement further urged residents of Oyo State and Nigerians at large to remain calm and hopeful, assuring that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of those abducted.
The recent exchange follows comments made by Fayose in a televised interview, where he accused Governor Makinde of reacting slowly to the kidnapping incident and alleged, without evidence, that the abductions were politically motivated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu.