KEY POINTS

• Governor Seyi Makinde says Oyo State is ready to listen to kidnappers’ demands to secure the safe release of abducted pupils and teachers.
• Security agencies have launched rescue operations, while the government insists it will not surrender to terrorism.
• Oyo’s surveillance aircraft project is expected to become operational before the end of June to improve border security.

Governor Seyi Makinde has said the Oyo State Government is willing to listen to the demands of the gunmen who abducted pupils and teachers from two schools in Oriire Local Government Area, as efforts continue to secure their release.

Speaking in Ibadan on Monday, Makinde stressed that his administration would not surrender to terrorism but remained open to dialogue if it would help bring the victims home safely.

Makinde confirmed that seven students were kidnapped from Community Secondary School, while 18 pupils and seven teachers were abducted from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School during the attack. He also revealed that one person was killed during the incident.

“We Will Not Give In to Terror” – Makinde

Makinde assured residents that security agencies were actively working to rescue the victims and restore calm to the affected communities.

According to him, the state government is prepared to consider the abductors’ grievances where possible, but insisted that the children and teachers must be released unharmed.

Makinde urged residents to support security agencies with useful information, encouraging citizens to report suspicious movements and activities promptly.

He also appealed to journalists and the public to avoid sensationalising the incident because lives were involved and security operations were still ongoing.

The governor disclosed that the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies had established an operational centre to coordinate rescue efforts and manage information related to the abduction.

He explained that some operational details could not yet be revealed due to the sensitive nature of the mission.

Makinde described the situation as difficult and fluid but assured residents that the government remained committed to ensuring the safe return of all abducted victims.