The Federal Government has intensified efforts to secure the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and deploying a specialized rescue team to the affected communities.
A high-level Federal Government delegation on Sunday visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The delegation conveyed President Tinubu’s concern over the incident and reassured residents that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring the safe return of all victims.
As part of immediate security interventions, the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government. The initiative is aimed at strengthening surveillance and improving security across vulnerable forest areas often exploited by criminal elements.
The Federal Government team also assured community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
In addition, President Tinubu has directed a specialized security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify operations aimed at securing the freedom of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. Other members included Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, and the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Speaking to residents in both English and Yoruba languages, Gbajabiamila emphasized that President Tinubu had mobilized the nation’s top security leadership to demonstrate the administration’s resolve in addressing the crisis.
According to him, the President is deeply disturbed by the abduction and has directed security agencies to deploy all necessary resources toward the safe rescue of the victims.
He assured parents and community members that the operation would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to maximize the chances of a successful rescue without endangering the lives of the captives.
During the visit, the delegation also paid a condolence visit to the palace of Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso, where they sympathized with traditional leaders and residents over the tragic incident.
The delegation further met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, the widow of a deceased school teacher affected by the incident, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s condolences and assured the family of government support, pledging that they would not be abandoned during this difficult period.
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The latest intervention underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling insecurity, protecting schools, and ensuring that communities affected by violent crimes receive the necessary support and security attention.
