KEY POINTS

• President Bola Tinubu has deployed a specialised rescue team and sent top security officials to Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
• The Federal Government has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State to strengthen security in vulnerable communities.
• Officials assured residents that efforts to rescue the abducted victims are ongoing and will prioritise their safety.

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, with President Bola Tinubu ordering the deployment of a specialised rescue team and dispatching top security officials to the affected communities.

Leading the Federal Government delegation was the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who visited Ogbomoso and surrounding communities on Sunday to reassure residents of the government’s commitment to rescuing the victims.

The delegation included Nuhu Ribadu, Tunji Disu, Christopher Musa, and Sunday Dare.

Their visit followed the May 15 attack in which gunmen abducted pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities.

Addressing residents during the visit, Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s concern over the incident and assured the communities that every available resource was being deployed to ensure the safe return of the victims.

According to him, the President has directed security agencies to intensify rescue operations while ensuring that the safety of the abducted children and teachers remains the top priority.

“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” Gbajabiamila said.

He explained that the rescue mission would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated to avoid jeopardising the lives of those in captivity.

1,000 Forest Guards Approved for Oyo

As part of broader efforts to improve security in the state, the Federal Government approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State.

The initiative will be carried out in partnership with the state government and is expected to enhance surveillance and security operations in forests and remote communities often used as hideouts by criminal groups.

Officials said the move forms part of ongoing efforts to prevent future attacks and strengthen security across vulnerable areas of the state.

During interactions with residents and community leaders, concerns were raised about the security situation in the area and the need for a stronger security presence.

The delegation disclosed that requests for the establishment of a military base in the affected communities would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.

Residents expressed hope that the creation of a permanent military presence would help deter criminal activities and provide greater protection for schools and communities.