Tinubu never called me during Oyo kidnapping crisis — Makinde

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde claimed that President Bola Tinubu did not call him during the 56-day hostage situation of students and teachers in the state. Makinde, who supported Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, said he had reached out to the President for assistance during the crisis. "I tried to see the President when our students and our children and their teachers were kidnapped, because I thought if any part of Nigeria is going through such a challenge, the President should be interested.

Actually, I expected the President to call me," Makinde stated during an interview with Arise Television. He further mentioned that he also tried contacting the State Chief of Protocol, but was unsuccessful in reaching the President. The governor clarified that he had not discussed any issues with Tinubu, emphasizing that their relationship remains strained.

Makinde scored Tinubu at 34% on performance and backed the creation of a state police force. The interview also mentioned that Tinubu, Sultan, and six other governors were expected to attend a Muslim assembly in Oyo. When questioned about the breakdown in their relationship, Makinde suggested that it might be due to rumors suggesting he could run against Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.