Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that pupils and teachers abducted by suspected bandits from schools in Oriire Local Government Area are still being held within the Old Oyo National Park, nearly a month after the incident.
The governor made this known in his Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, assuring residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
The schoolchildren and teachers were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities.
According to Makinde, intelligence reports indicate that the abductees remain within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast forest area spanning about 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in the state.
He noted that the size and difficult terrain of the park have complicated rescue operations, requiring sustained intelligence gathering, strategic coordination and patience from all stakeholders.
“It has now been 27 days since the unfortunate incident occurred, leaving families and communities anxious and distressed,” the governor said.
“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees.”
Makinde acknowledged the emotional burden on the families of the victims, stating that while government assurances may not fully ease their concerns, security agencies remain committed to bringing the students and teachers home safely.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing operations by reporting suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.
The governor also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts and compromise security operations.
Makinde appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information and to pray for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
