The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West has strongly criticized former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, over his allegation that the recent kidnapping incidents in Oyo State were orchestrated by Governor Seyi Makinde to embarrass President Bola Tinubu.
The party described Fayose’s comments as reckless, insensitive and politically dangerous, saying such remarks could worsen tensions at a time when the country is battling serious security challenges.
In a statement issued by the South-West Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Sanya Atofarati, the party condemned the former governor’s claims and accused him of attempting to turn a painful security situation into a political issue.
According to Atofarati, Fayose’s comments were irresponsible and provocative, especially at a time when many Nigerians are facing the threat of kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
The PDP spokesman said it was unfortunate that a former governor would seek to make political gains from a matter involving the safety and wellbeing of citizens.
He noted that insecurity remains a major national concern and should not be used as a tool for political attacks or partisan arguments.
“This is a reckless and politically dangerous allegation. Security challenges require responsible leadership, national unity and sincere collaboration, not inflammatory allegations from individuals whose political positions shift according to personal interests,” Atofarati said.
The controversy followed recent kidnapping incidents involving pupils and teachers in parts of Oyo State.
The incidents generated concern among residents and drew reactions from political leaders, community groups and security stakeholders.
Following the abductions, Fayose reportedly alleged that the incidents were politically motivated and suggested that the Oyo State Government may have orchestrated the situation as part of a plot to embarrass President Tinubu.
The former governor made the allegation during a televised programme, where he questioned the handling of the security situation by the Oyo State Government.
According to Fayose, there were reasons to examine the circumstances surrounding the incidents and the official response to them.
His comments immediately attracted criticism from political observers and members of the PDP, who argued that such claims lacked evidence and could distract attention from efforts to tackle insecurity.
Responding to the allegation, the South-West PDP said Fayose’s remarks demonstrated what it described as double standards on matters relating to security, public accountability and political morality.
The party maintained that security issues should be approached with caution and seriousness, especially when lives are at risk.
Atofarati said Nigerians are being killed, kidnapped and displaced in different parts of the country by criminal groups, making it inappropriate for public figures to make unverified allegations for political purposes.
He stressed that the focus should remain on supporting security agencies and government efforts aimed at rescuing victims and preventing future attacks.
According to him, attempts to politicise insecurity could undermine public confidence and distract authorities from addressing the real issues.
The PDP spokesman urged Nigerians to reject efforts to use security challenges as weapons in political battles.
He also reaffirmed the party’s support for Governor Makinde and the people of Oyo State during what he described as a difficult period.
“We stand firmly with the government and people of Oyo State in this difficult moment and commend Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering commitment to the security and welfare of the people,” he said.
The latest disagreement highlights growing political tensions ahead of future elections, with political actors increasingly exchanging accusations over governance and security matters.
Governor Makinde, who is serving his second term as governor of Oyo State, has frequently highlighted security as one of the priorities of his administration.
His government has invested in security infrastructure, supported security agencies with logistics and equipment, and strengthened collaboration with local security networks.
Despite these efforts, like many other states across Nigeria, Oyo continues to face challenges related to kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Over the years, schoolchildren, travellers, farmers, business owners and community leaders have been targeted by criminal gangs seeking ransom payments.
Several state governments have responded by increasing support for security agencies and introducing measures aimed at improving intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities.
The debate generated by Fayose’s remarks has also renewed discussions about the role of political leaders in times of crisis.
For now, the Oyo kidnapping incidents remain under investigation, with security agencies continuing efforts to apprehend those responsible and prevent further attacks.
Meanwhile, the exchange between Fayose and the South-West PDP has added a political dimension to the conversation, drawing attention to the broader debate over security, governance and accountability in Nigeria.
As concerns over insecurity continue across the country, many Nigerians are calling for greater collaboration among political leaders and security agencies to address the challenge and ensure the safety of citizens.
The PDP insists that the current focus should be on supporting victims, strengthening security operations and promoting unity rather than engaging in allegations that could deepen divisions.