Gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori has publicly apologised following backlash over comments she made regarding the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
The singer came under criticism after suggesting that spiritual forces could be hindering security agencies from locating and rescuing the kidnapped victims, a remark that sparked heated reactions across social media.
In a new statement, Alaseyori expressed regret over the way her comments were perceived, insisting that she never intended to dismiss the pain, concerns or frustrations of Nigerians affected by the ongoing security crisis.
According to her, a widely circulated clip was taken from a much longer video in which she had spent considerable time praying for the abducted children, their families and others affected by insecurity.
“I did a video a few days ago. It was about 1 hour 30 minutes long, praying for the kidnapped children and victims’ families and everybody in pain as a whole,” she said.
The gospel singer explained that she later discovered that many Nigerians felt offended by her remarks and believed their concerns were being ignored.
“But I woke up and found out some well meaning Nigerians were offended because I made them feel unseen and their voices unheard. I wouldn’t do such a thing,” she stated.
Alaseyori appealed for understanding and forgiveness, emphasizing that she shares in the pain of affected families as both a citizen and a mother.
“Please forgive me; don’t be offended. I beg you in God’s name. I am a mother too. Please forgive me,” she added.
Her apology comes amid growing public concern over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, a development that has triggered nationwide calls for urgent action to secure the victims’ release.