Governor Seyi Makinde provided an update on efforts to rescue the schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped by suspected bandits in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in the Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, stating that the abductees are still in the Old Oyo National Park.
Makinde stated in his Newsletter No. 140, which was posted on Friday, that the victims remain the target of continuing security operations.
The governor stated that it has been 27 days since the students and teachers were forcibly removed from their schools, leaving their families and communities in distress and uncertainty.
Chronicle NG reports that scores of teachers and students were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in the local government, on Friday, May 15, 2026.
He acknowledged the sorrow and concern felt by the afflicted families, noting that while he had repeatedly guaranteed residents that the victims would be rescued and reunited with their loved ones, he understood that such assurances would provide little consolation as the days passed.
Makinde insisted that the state government and security forces had not given up, emphasising that “every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees”.
“Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.
“The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation.”
The governor advised citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious actions to the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, promising the public that any legitimate reports would be investigated promptly.
He also warned against the spread of unsubstantiated information about the kidnapping, stating that “misinformation can jeopardise ongoing rescue efforts and impede security operations”.
Makinde urged citizens to continue providing vital information to security officials and to pray for the abducted children and instructors as efforts to ensure their safe return escalate.
