President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring affected families that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to secure the victims’ release.
In a statement issued on Monday, the President described the incident in the Esiele and Yawota communities as heartbreaking, stressing that schools should remain safe spaces for learning and development.
Tinubu said the abduction had caused pain and anxiety among families and communities, noting that no parent should have to endure the trauma of having a child taken from the classroom.
The President also extended his condolences to the family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher reportedly beheaded by bandits during the attack. He pledged that the sacrifice of the slain teacher would not be forgotten and assured that the government would stand by his family.
According to Tinubu, security agencies have been directed to sustain intelligence-driven rescue operations aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
He said both kinetic and non-kinetic measures would be deployed to ensure the victims regain their freedom while efforts are being coordinated to prevent further attacks on schools and communities.
The President’s assurance followed the visit of a high-powered Federal Government delegation to the affected communities. The team included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, among other top officials.
Tinubu further disclosed that a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities had been deployed to strengthen ongoing operations in the area.
He also reaffirmed plans to collaborate with the Oyo State Government in deploying 1,000 forest guards to improve surveillance and security across forest corridors often exploited by criminal groups.
The President added that a proposal for the establishment of a military base in the affected area was receiving urgent attention as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity and protect vulnerable communities.
The abduction, which occurred on May 15, has continued to generate nationwide concern, with residents and stakeholders calling for swift action to ensure the safe return of the victims and strengthen security around schools.
