Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has disclosed that efforts to secure the release of students and teachers abducted from schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area are ongoing .
In a statewide address delivered on Friday, the governor acknowledged the pain and frustration of families whose loved ones remain in captivity, noting that the prolonged ordeal has left many communities living in panic.
Makinde said the state government, alongside security agencies, is pursuing every credible lead and taking all lawful measures necessary to ensure the safe return of the victims, noting that
details of the operations cannot be disclosed for security reasons.
The governor revealed that intelligence reports indicate the abducted students and teachers are still believed to be within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast area spanning parts of 10 local government areas and covering about 2,500 square kilometres.
According to him, the size and difficult terrain of the area present significant challenges to rescue operations, requiring patience, coordination and persistence from all stakeholders involved.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, which operates round the clock.
Makinde also cautioned against the spread of unverified information regarding the abductions, stressing that inaccurate reports could undermine ongoing rescue efforts. He encouraged citizens to rely on official channels for updates.
The governor assured families that the abducted students and teachers have not been forgotten and remain at the centre of government efforts, while appealing to residents to continue supporting security agencies and praying for the victims’ safe return.
The students and teachers were abducted 27 days ago from schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area, triggering widespread concern across Oyo State.
