Popular Nigerian gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori has publicly apologised following widespread criticism of her remarks regarding the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, an incident that has continued to generate outrage and concern across the country. Her apology comes after many Nigerians accused her of appearing insensitive to the pain and frustration of families affected by the tragic kidnapping.
The controversy began after the singer shared a video in which she encouraged Nigerians to continue praying for the safe return of the abducted victims and for an end to the country’s security challenges. During the message, she also stated that President Bola Tinubu and government agencies were making efforts to address the crisis, while emphasizing the role of prayer in overcoming difficult situations. Her comments, however, sparked intense reactions online, with many Nigerians arguing that prayer alone was not enough and that authorities needed to take stronger and more decisive action against insecurity.
As criticism mounted, Alaseyori released another video in which she expressed regret over the way her earlier remarks were received. The gospel artiste explained that her intention had never been to dismiss the suffering of the victims or make Nigerians feel unheard. According to her, the original video was much longer and included prayers for the abducted children, their families, security personnel, government officials, and the nation as a whole. She said she was saddened to learn that some people felt offended by her comments and appealed for understanding and forgiveness. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
In her emotional apology, Alaseyori specifically addressed parents and mothers who were hurt by her remarks, stressing that she would never deliberately trivialise the pain of families facing such a traumatic experience. She pleaded with Nigerians to forgive her if her words came across as insensitive and reaffirmed her sympathy for everyone affected by the abduction.
The apology comes against the backdrop of growing national concern over the kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The incident has attracted widespread condemnation from citizens, civil society groups, entertainers, religious leaders, and political figures, all of whom have demanded urgent action to secure the release of those still in captivity. The tragedy has also reignited conversations about the worsening security situation in parts of the country and the need for stronger protection of schools and vulnerable communities.
Many public figures, including actors, musicians, and activists, have continued to speak out on the issue, urging government authorities to intensify rescue efforts and implement measures to prevent similar attacks in the future. While reactions to Alaseyori’s initial comments were sharply divided, her apology has been welcomed by some Nigerians who believe she demonstrated humility by acknowledging the concerns raised by the public.
As the nation continues to await the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, the episode underscores the sensitivity surrounding discussions of insecurity and the expectations Nigerians place on public figures when addressing national tragedies. It also reflects the deep emotions generated by the Oyo school abduction, which has become one of the most talked-about security incidents in recent weeks.
