KEY POINTS

• Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that the Oyo State Government is working tirelessly to secure the release of abducted teachers, pupils, and residents in Oriire Local Government Area.
• Emotional appeals from families of the victims highlighted the pain and uncertainty faced by those whose loved ones remain in captivity.
• Kidnapped teachers appearing in videos from captivity have urged the government to negotiate with their captors, warning that the use of force could endanger lives.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has pledged that his administration will continue to do everything within its power to secure the release of teachers, schoolchildren, and residents abducted during a recent attack on schools and communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The governor made the assurance during a visit to the affected communities over the weekend, where he met with residents, families of the victims, and local leaders. He appealed for calm and cooperation as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue those still being held captive.

Addressing grieving residents, Makinde acknowledged the pain and anxiety caused by the abductions, assuring them that government authorities had not relented in their efforts.

“I want you to cooperate with us. We are doing everything humanly possible to get our children and our teachers back,” the governor said.

He explained that the rescue operation remains active and involves sensitive security considerations, making it impossible to disclose full details of ongoing efforts.

“By God’s grace, we will bring them out. Because it is an ongoing operation with security implications, I cannot say much more at this time,” he added.

Schools and Communities Attacked by Gunmen

The abduction followed a violent attack by heavily armed gunmen on schools and nearby communities in the Esiele and Yawota areas of Oriire Local Government Area.

The attackers reportedly stormed LA Primary School and Community Grammar School in the Ahoro-Esiele community, firing sporadically and causing panic among teachers, pupils, and residents.

Several teachers, schoolchildren, and other community members were subsequently taken away by the assailants, sparking outrage and fear across the state.

The incident has renewed concerns about insecurity in rural communities and the vulnerability of schools to criminal attacks.

While speaking with residents, Makinde expressed sympathy for families whose loved ones remain in captivity.

“I know you are bleeding; I’m also bleeding in my heart,” the governor said.

He urged residents to remain hopeful, intensify prayers, and maintain confidence in the government’s ability to resolve the crisis.

“My plea is that we should continue to pray and trust your government,” he told the gathering.

His remarks were met with emotional reactions from community members, many of whom continue to wait anxiously for news about their relatives.