Governor Bala Mohammed has visited Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan to sympathise with him over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The Bauchi governor made the visit on Sunday to Makinde’s private residence, where he was joined by leaders of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), including the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, and its Bauchi governorship candidate, Dr Yakubu Adamu.
Speaking after the meeting, Bala Mohammed said the visit was to show support for the Oyo State government and the families affected by the kidnapping, while also urging stronger national security reforms.
He called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security system, stressing the need for better coordination among security agencies and closer cooperation between citizens and security operatives to improve safety.
Mohammed said: “We are here to commiserate with Governor Makinde over the abduction of schoolchildren and their teachers.”
He praised Makinde’s efforts to secure the release of the victims, expressing hope that they would be freed soon.
He also linked insecurity to poverty, poor governance and economic hardship, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid providing criminal groups with information.
The Bauchi governor further stressed the need for credible leadership at all levels, saying it is key to addressing the country’s security and development challenges.
He also congratulated Makinde on his political role within the APM, describing him as a leader with vision and energy.
Officials who received him included the Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; the Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola; and the Senior Executive Assistant on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal.