The Oyo State Government has revealed that pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area are still believed to be within the Old Oyo National Park corridor, as security agencies intensify efforts to secure their release.
Governor Seyi Makinde made this known while providing an update on the ongoing rescue operation. He assured residents and families of the victims that the state government remains fully committed to bringing the abducted pupils and teachers home safely.
According to the governor, intelligence reports available to security operatives indicate that the victims have not been moved out of the forest corridor where they were initially taken. He noted that security agencies have continued coordinated search-and-rescue missions in the area.
Makinde explained that security personnel are working round the clock, deploying various strategies to track the kidnappers and locate the victims. He added that both state and federal security agencies are collaborating to ensure a successful operation.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when heavily armed gunmen invaded schools in the Ahoro, Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area. The attackers reportedly kidnapped dozens of pupils and several teachers, throwing the affected communities into fear and uncertainty.
The incident sparked outrage among residents, parents and education stakeholders, who have repeatedly called on authorities to take decisive action to rescue the victims and improve security around schools.
Reports indicate that the attack also claimed lives, with at least one teacher killed during the invasion. Another victim was reportedly murdered while in captivity, further heightening concerns over the safety of those still being held.
Governor Makinde stressed that the government is exploring all lawful and strategic options to secure the release of the abductees. He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid the rescue efforts.
The governor further assured parents and guardians that the welfare and safety of the abducted pupils and teachers remain a top priority for his administration.
Meanwhile, the incident has continued to generate reactions from various groups, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers, which has called for stronger security measures to protect schools and prevent future attacks.
As rescue operations continue, families of the victims remain hopeful that the abducted pupils and teachers will soon regain their freedom and reunite with their loved ones.
