Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose has again blamed Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in the state, arguing that the incident resulted from what he described as a failure to take timely security measures.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Fayose said governors bear the primary responsibility for coordinating security efforts within their states.
According to him, state governments cannot shift blame when security breaches occur because they possess the authority to mobilise security agencies and strengthen local intelligence gathering.
“I maintain my position that Governor Makinde did not act proactively enough.
“The kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo reflects a security lapse that should have been addressed before it escalated,” Fayose said.
The former governor stressed that while the Federal Government supports security operations nationwide, state governors remain key players in preventing crime through effective coordination of security structures and rapid response mechanisms.
Furthermore, Fayose argued that governors must ensure close collaboration with the police and other security agencies operating within their jurisdictions.
He said state administrations should constantly assess threats and deploy resources to vulnerable communities before criminal attacks occur.
Commenting on the broader security situation in the country, Fayose alleged that kidnapping has evolved into a lucrative criminal enterprise in some areas.
He claimed that investigations in certain cases had revealed the involvement of individuals seeking financial benefits from abduction activities.
The former governor explained that his criticism of the Oyo State Government was influenced by developments around Ogbomoso and other areas affected by kidnapping incidents.
He said authorities should have acted more decisively to prevent the worsening security challenges.
Drawing from his experience as governor of Ekiti State, Fayose recalled implementing strict measures against open grazing, including restrictions on cattle movement during nighttime hours.
He argued that state governments have the legal and administrative tools needed to safeguard residents and protect economic activities.
“Every governor has a duty to introduce policies that secure lives and property. Leadership requires taking preventive action rather than reacting after incidents have occurred,” he said.
Fayose also defended his previous remarks regarding the installation of traditional rulers in Oyo State.
According to him, public officials and former office holders must be willing to accept criticism, noting that accountability remains an essential part of democratic governance.

