Governor Makinde Gives Update on Rescue Operation, Pledges Safe Return of Victims

Governor Makinde Gives Update on Rescue Operation, Pledges Safe Return of Victims 

June 13, 2026

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has disclosed that pupils and teachers abducted by suspected bandits from schools in Oriire Local Government Area are currently being held within the vast and difficult terrain of the Old Oyo National Park, nearly four weeks after their abduction.

The governor made the revelation on Friday while providing an update on the ongoing rescue operation, assuring residents and families of the victims that security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure their safe release.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on schools located in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area. Since then, the incident has triggered widespread anxiety and outrage across Oyo State, with families enduring weeks of uncertainty as their loved ones remain in captivity.

Speaking on the challenges confronting rescue efforts, Makinde explained that the massive expanse and rugged landscape of the Old Oyo National Park have complicated security operations. According to him, the difficult terrain requires careful planning, patience, coordination and strategic execution to avoid endangering the lives of the abducted children and their teachers.

Despite the obstacles, the governor stressed that security operatives have not relented in their efforts and are pursuing every available lead to ensure the victims are rescued unharmed.

Makinde acknowledged the emotional trauma and distress being experienced by the affected families, describing the situation as heartbreaking.

“It is extremely difficult for me to even ask how you are doing,” the governor said while addressing the families and communities affected by the tragedy.

“It has been 27 days since our children and teachers were forcefully taken from their schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.”

The governor assured residents that the state government remains fully committed to securing the release of all the victims and is working closely with security agencies to achieve that objective.

He also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing operations by reporting suspicious movements or activities to the appropriate authorities.

Makinde urged residents to make use of the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, a toll-free emergency line available around the clock.

“If you see anything suspicious, please call 615, the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number. The line is toll-free and staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your report will be received and acted upon,” he said.

The governor further warned against the spread of rumours and unverified information concerning the abduction, noting that misinformation could undermine rescue efforts and potentially place the lives of the victims at greater risk.

“We will continue to provide factual updates on the efforts being made to bring our children and their teachers home. However, I must once again appeal to all of us not to spread unverified information about these abductions. Please rely on official channels for information.

“These are sensitive matters, and we must avoid anything that could jeopardise rescue efforts.”

Makinde also called on residents to continue praying for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers while maintaining confidence in the efforts of security agencies.

“Continue to pray for their safe return. Continue to remain vigilant. And continue to support the efforts of our security agencies as we work towards bringing every one of them home safely,” he added.

As the victims enter their fourth week in captivity, concern continues to mount across Oyo State and beyond. Community leaders, parents and civil society groups have repeatedly called for urgent action to secure the release of the schoolchildren and teachers, describing the prolonged ordeal as a painful reminder of the growing insecurity affecting parts of the country.

For the families waiting anxiously for news of their loved ones, each passing day deepens the anguish. However, authorities insist that efforts remain ongoing and that every available resource is being deployed to ensure the victims are rescued safely and reunited with their families.