IBADAN – Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that the state government and security agencies are working relentlessly to secure the safe release of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
In a message addressed to the people of Oyo State, the governor acknowledged the pain and anxiety caused by the prolonged captivity of the victims, noting that 27 days had passed since they were taken by their abductors.
Makinde said he understood that repeated assurances from the government might seem inadequate in the absence of visible results but stressed that every available lawful measure was being pursued to ensure the victims return home safely.
He explained that while operational details could not be disclosed for security reasons, authorities continued to follow every credible lead and remained committed to achieving a successful rescue.
The governor disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the abducted children and teachers were still within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast area spanning parts of 10 local government areas and covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.
According to him, the difficult terrain and expansive nature of the area have made rescue operations particularly challenging, requiring patience, coordination and sustained efforts by security personnel.
Makinde appealed to residents across the state to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, which operates around the clock.
He also urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts, encouraging them instead to rely on official updates.
The governor expressed solidarity with the families of the victims, assuring them that their loved ones had not been forgotten and remained the government’s top priority.
He further called on residents to continue praying for the safe return of the abducted children and teachers while supporting security agencies in their efforts to bring the ordeal to a successful conclusion.