Fresh claims have surfaced regarding the security operation that led to the rescue of victims abducted during the Oriire kidnapping incident, with an anonymous source providing details that have not been independently verified.
The source alleged that security operatives detained relatives of suspected Ansarul members across several states, including Katsina, Sokoto, Adamawa, Borno and Zamfara, as part of intelligence efforts that reportedly helped facilitate the successful rescue of the abductees.
According to the source, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde was allegedly not informed about the operation before the victims were rescued.
The source also claimed that relations between the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government became strained after the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, announced that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom. The source further alleged that the kidnappers later denied making such a demand.
It was further alleged that security authorities in Abuja have placed Governor Makinde under closer scrutiny over his reported association with a governor from Nigeria’s North-East who is currently facing allegations related to terrorism sponsorship.
The same source claimed that Miyetti Allah leader Bello Bodejo was recently arraigned over allegations of receiving funds allegedly linked to terrorists from the same governor. The matter is reportedly before a court in Abuja.
The source also suggested that the relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Makinde is no longer as cordial as it once was, although it remains unclear whether the situation is temporary or permanent. The source expressed the view that stronger cooperation between both governments is necessary to sustain peace and security, while calling on prominent Yoruba traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, to help promote reconciliation.
Despite the allegations, the successful rescue of the abducted victims was described as a welcome development deserving of appreciation. The source congratulated President Tinubu, Governor Makinde and all security personnel involved in the operation, while expressing gratitude for the safe return of the victims.
The source also appealed to the President to intensify efforts toward securing the release of two groups of abducted students in Borno State, including young children and students kidnapped while sitting for their WAEC examinations, expressing hope that they will soon be reunited with their families.
