Popular gospel artiste Yinka Alaseyori has tendered an apology following public criticism of her comments regarding the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State.
In a video posted on her Instagram page on Wednesday, the singer acknowledged the concerns raised by Nigerians and expressed regret that her earlier remarks were perceived as insensitive to the plight of the victims and their families.
Alaseyori explained that her intention was never to downplay the gravity of the incident or dismiss the feelings of those affected by the tragedy.
“I did a video two days ago about the kidnapped children, touching on government, parastatals and every agency. But when I woke up yesterday, I found out that some well-meaning Nigerians were not happy about it, as I made them feel their voices are unheard,” she said.
The gospel singer said she was saddened by the reaction to the video and appealed to Nigerians, particularly parents, to forgive her if her comments caused any hurt.
“You know me too well that I would never make you feel like that. Mothers, do not be offended. I am sorry. I beg in God’s name. Please, forgive me. I would never think like that. Pardon and forgive me,” she added.
The apology followed widespread reactions to an earlier video in which Alaseyori urged Nigerians to continue praying over the country’s security challenges while maintaining that the federal government and President Bola Tinubu were making efforts to rescue the victims, restore peace and tackle insecurity.
Her comments sparked debate on social media, with some Nigerians arguing that prayers alone were insufficient and that authorities needed to take more decisive action to secure the release of the abducted victims.
The kidnapping of schoolchildren and their teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has continued to attract national attention, with citizens and advocacy groups calling for intensified rescue efforts and improved security measures to prevent similar incidents.
