President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sympathy with families affected by the recent abduction of school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to securing their release.
In a statement issued on Monday, the President described the incident in Esiele and Yawota communities as deeply troubling, stressing that schools should remain safe spaces for learning.
He lamented the emotional toll on parents and guardians, stating that no family should have to endure the trauma of losing a child to such attacks.
Tinubu also extended condolences to the family of a slain teacher, Michael Oyedokun, who was killed during the assault, assuring that the victim’s sacrifice would be remembered and that support would not be withdrawn from the bereaved family.
The President said ongoing rescue efforts would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated, with security agencies deploying a combination of tactical and non-tactical approaches to ensure the safe return of the victims.
He noted that a high-level Federal Government delegation had already visited the affected communities following the May 15 incident, with top officials including Femi Gbajabiamila and Nuhu Ribadu involved in the response.
Tinubu further highlighted additional measures introduced to strengthen security in the area, including the deployment of a specialised rescue unit and the planned recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.
He added that the proposal for establishing a military base in the affected region was under active consideration as part of broader efforts to curb insecurity.
The abduction has intensified concerns over safety in schools, with authorities maintaining that operations remain ongoing to secure the victims’ release and prevent future attacks.
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