Oriire abduction: Open letter to Gov Seyi Makinde

Fatai SANNI

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APPRECIATION, CONDOLENCES, AND A HUMBLE APPEAL FOR SUPPORT TO THE FAMILIES OF SLAIN TEACHERS OF ESINELE HIGH SCHOOL, BASIC SCHOOL ESINELE, AND BAPTIST PRIMARY SCHOOL, YAWOTA

Late Mr. Michael Oyedokun (left) and late Mr. John Olaleye, both staff of COmmunity High School, Ahoro Esin-ele in Oriire local government

Mr Joel Adesiyan the primary school teacher killed during the attack

Your Excellency,

I write this open letter with profound respect, gratitude, and a deep sense of concern regarding the unfortunate incident that claimed the lives of dedicated teaching staff of Esinele High School, Basic School Esinele, and Baptist Primary School, Yawota, who were abducted in their line of duty, while serving humanity and whose families now bear the painful burden of their untimely deaths.

First and foremost, I wish to express sincere appreciation to Your Excellency, Governor Abiodun Seyi Makinde, for your exemplary leadership, commitment to the welfare of the people of Oyo State, and your unwavering dedication to improving education, security, healthcare, infrastructure, and workers’ welfare. Your administration has consistently demonstrated compassion and responsiveness in times of difficulty, giving hope to the people of our dear state.

I also extend heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his commitment to strengthening national security and supporting efforts aimed at protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.

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Our sincere gratitude equally goes to all the security agencies that worked tirelessly during the rescue efforts, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps), local vigilante groups, and every other security organization that participated in the search and rescue operations. Although the outcome was heartbreaking, their sacrifices and commitment to safeguarding lives deserve recognition and appreciation.

Your Excellency, the painful loss of these teachers is not only a tragedy to their immediate families but also to the education sector and the entire Oyo State. These men and women dedicated their lives to nurturing future generations. They served diligently in rural communities despite numerous challenges, believing that education remains the strongest instrument for national development.

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The three teachers who eventually lost their lives have left behind grieving widows, children, aged parents, and dependents whose future has suddenly become uncertain. No amount of financial assistance can replace the lives that have been lost, but government’s intervention can significantly ease the burden their families now carry.

It is on this compassionate note that I humbly appeal to Your Excellency to graciously consider the following:

Offer suitable appointments into the Oyo State Civil/Public Service to the wives of the deceased teaching staff, where they are qualified, or provide opportunities for gainful employment that will enable them to cater for their families with dignity.

Approve a special relief package or compassionate financial support for the immediate families of the deceased to help cushion the devastating economic effects of their loss.

Provide educational scholarships for the children of the deceased, covering their education from the primary level to tertiary institutions, subject to satisfactory academic performance.

Facilitate prompt payment of all outstanding salaries, pensions, gratuities, insurance benefits, and other entitlements due to the deceased officers without unnecessary delays.

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Your Excellency, history remembers leaders not only for the roads they construct or the buildings they erect but also for the compassion they extend to vulnerable citizens in their moments of greatest need. A kind intervention in favour of these bereaved families will stand as a lasting testimony of your administration’s commitment to justice, humanity, and the welfare of workers.

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The teaching profession remains one of the noblest callings in the society. Teachers shape future leaders, and their sacrifices should never be forgotten. By supporting the families they left behind, your government will send a strong message that every public servant who faithfully serves Oyo State is valued and remembered.

May Almighty God continue to grant you wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance as you continue to steer the affairs of Oyo State toward greater prosperity. May He also grant eternal rest to the departed souls and comfort their families during this difficult period.

Please, accept the assurances of our highest esteem and respect.

Yours faithfully,

Sanni sends this piece from Ogbomoso.