President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured families of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to secure their release, while also mourning a teacher killed during the attack that shook communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Monday, the President expressed sympathy with families affected by the abduction of students and teachers from schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities, describing the incident as a painful tragedy that has sparked nationwide concern.
Tinubu said no child should ever be taken from the safety of a school environment, adding that the anguish being experienced by parents and relatives of the victims was deeply troubling.
The President also paid tribute to the late teacher, Mary Oyedokun, who lost her life during the attack, extending condolences to her family and assuring them that her sacrifice would not be forgotten.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rescuing the abducted victims, noting that security agencies were pursuing a coordinated and intelligence-driven operation. According to him, both military and non-military strategies would be deployed to ensure the safe return of the pupils and teachers.
The statement comes after the Federal Government dispatched a high-powered delegation to the affected communities following the May 15, 2026 abductions. The team included senior officials such as the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Tinubu further highlighted ongoing security measures aimed at addressing insecurity in the area, including the deployment of a specialized rescue unit and plans to mobilize 1,000 forest guards in partnership with the Oyo State Government to monitor forest routes often used by criminal groups.
He added that authorities were also considering the establishment of a military base in the affected area as part of broader efforts to strengthen security and improve emergency response capabilities.
The abductions in Esiele and Yawota have renewed concerns about the safety of schools in rural communities, with security agencies maintaining that operations remain underway to rescue the victims and prevent future attacks.
