President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conveyed his condolences to families affected by the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, stressing that educational institutions must remain safe spaces for learning and development.
In a statement released on Monday, the president said he shared in the pain and anxiety of affected families following the attack on communities in Esiele and Yawota, which has triggered nationwide concern over school security.
According to the President, it is unacceptable for students to be forcefully taken from schools, emphasizing that no family should be subjected to the trauma and emotional burden caused by such acts of violence. He assured affected residents that the federal government remains committed to securing the release of all abducted victims.
Tinubu also paid tribute to Mary Oyedokun, whose husband, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed during the attack by armed criminals. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, describing the tragedy as painful and assuring them that the government would not overlook their suffering.
“I also extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs. Mary Oyedokun. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” he said.
He assured that rescue operations would continue in a coordinated and intelligence-driven manner, with the government deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to secure the release of abducted victims.
“Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he said.
The President’s statement follows a high-level Federal Government delegation sent to the affected communities in Oriire Local Government Area after the abductions, which occurred on May 15, 2026.
The delegation included senior government and security officials such as the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, among others.
Tinubu further reinforced previously announced security measures in the area, including the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities and the mobilisation of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to strengthen surveillance in forest corridors used by armed groups.
He also said the initiative would be supported by broader operational measures aimed at improving rescue efforts.
“I have also directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers,” he said.
The president noted that a request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area was receiving urgent consideration.
The abduction in Esiele and Yawota communities has heightened concerns over school safety and rural insecurity, with authorities maintaining that ongoing operations are aimed at securing the safe return of victims and strengthening security in vulnerable areas.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
