Oyo Governor’s Aide Denies Allegations, Details Role in Protests Over Abducted Students

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Oyo State Governor on Students’ Affairs, Hon. Victor Dideoluwa Olojede, has denied allegations linking him to acts of violence during recent protests over the abduction of students in Oyo State, while also providing an account of his involvement in efforts surrounding the demonstrations.

In a statement made available to the public, Olojede described the abduction of the students, which occurred about two weeks ago, as a painful incident that has attracted widespread concern across the state and country.

According to him, he has actively participated in advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring the safe return of the affected students to their families.

Giving an account of his activities, Olojede said that on Monday he joined protesters from Mokola through Agodi Gate and Total Garden to the Oyo State Government Secretariat. He explained that while participating in the demonstration, he engaged protesters to maintain order and prevent actions capable of escalating tensions.

He stated that at some point, some protesters allegedly obstructed commercial motorcyclists and elderly commuters, prompting him to intervene and appeal for calm. He also claimed to have advised protesters to allow a truck carrying gas cylinders to continue its journey in order to avoid potential danger.

Olojede further stated that his intervention contributed to the reopening of blocked roads around 2:00 p.m., adding that he remained with protesters throughout the exercise in solidarity with the concerns being raised.

He also disclosed that he provided bottled water to some demonstrators as part of efforts to maintain calm during the protest.

Speaking on events of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, the Governor’s aide said leadership members of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) visited the State Secretariat to engage with Governor Seyi Makinde over the abduction incident.

According to Olojede, following the meeting, the NANS delegation proceeded to Oriire Local Government Area to visit affected schools and sympathize with families of the abducted students, and he accompanied them in his official capacity.

He alleged that while the delegation stopped at a filling station to refuel vehicles conveying student representatives, a confrontation occurred after another group of protesters reportedly demanded that the student leaders join a road blockade.

Olojede claimed that the disagreement later escalated into violence, with protesters allegedly attacking some students using sticks and stones before student leaders responded. He maintained that his role during the incident was limited to separating those involved and encouraging participants to leave the area peacefully.

He also stated that he assisted a participant in recovering a seized camera, which he said reflected his neutrality during the protest.

Responding to allegations circulating online, Olojede strongly denied claims that he brandished a firearm or directed attacks against individuals.

“I have never held a firearm, let alone thought of harming anyone,” he stated, describing the allegations as false and an attempt to damage his reputation.

He called for fairness and due process, urging Nigerians to allow facts and evidence to guide public judgment.

“The law implies that he who alleges must prove,” he added.