President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged that security agencies will continue intensive efforts to secure the release of students and teachers abducted in Oyo State, while also mourning a teacher who lost his life during the attack that shocked communities across the state.
The President’s reaction comes amid growing national concern over the safety of schools following the kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area, where armed attackers targeted communities and reportedly abducted pupils and education workers.
Tinubu Condemns Attack on Schools
In a statement issued on Monday, Tinubu described the incident as deeply disturbing and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting children and educational institutions.
According to the President, schools must remain places of learning and safety, stressing that no family should be subjected to the trauma of seeing their children taken from the classroom by criminal groups.
The attack, which occurred in the Esiele and Yawota communities, has reignited conversations about school security and the growing threat posed by armed gangs operating in rural areas.
President Mourns Slain Teacher
Tinubu also paid tribute to the late teacher, Michael Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed during the incident.
The President expressed sympathy to the deceased’s family and assured them that the sacrifice of the fallen educator would not be forgotten.
His remarks highlighted the dangers faced by teachers and community leaders in areas affected by violent attacks and insecurity.
Rescue Operations Intensified
Furthermore, Tinubu disclosed that security agencies have been directed to sustain coordinated efforts aimed at securing the safe release of the abducted victims.
He explained that authorities are combining intelligence gathering with tactical operations to improve the chances of a successful rescue mission.
The President emphasized that all lawful measures available to government would be deployed to ensure the return of the students and teachers.
Federal Government Sends Top Security Officials
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has already dispatched a high-powered delegation to the affected communities.
The team included senior security and government officials such as Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Defence Ministry representatives, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
Their visit followed the abduction incident that occurred on May 15, 2026, as authorities sought firsthand assessments of the security situation.
New Security Measures Announced
As part of efforts to prevent similar attacks, the President reiterated plans to deploy a specialised rescue unit equipped with advanced operational capabilities.
In addition, the Federal Government is collaborating with Oyo State authorities to mobilise 1,000 forest guards to strengthen surveillance across forest routes frequently exploited by criminal groups.
The initiative is expected to enhance intelligence gathering and improve rapid response capabilities in vulnerable communities.
Military Base Proposal Under Review
Tinubu also revealed that a request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area is currently receiving urgent attention.
Security analysts believe the move could improve long-term security coverage and help deter future attacks in remote parts of the state.
Rising Concerns Over School Safety
The Oyo school abduction has once again drawn attention to the persistent challenge of protecting schools in parts of Nigeria affected by banditry and rural insecurity.
While rescue operations continue, parents, community leaders, and education stakeholders remain hopeful that the abducted students and teachers will be reunited safely with their families.
Authorities insist that ongoing security interventions are not only focused on rescuing victims but also on preventing future attacks on schools and rural communities.
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