Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that the ongoing effort to rescue schoolchildren and teachers abducted by terrorists in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities, Oriire Local Government Area, continues to face major obstacles due to the vast and rugged terrain of the Old Oyo National Park.
In Newsletter No. 140 issued on Friday, the governor said intelligence gathered by security agencies suggests that the abductees are still being held within the Old Oyo National Park corridor, nearly four weeks after they were taken.
Makinde noted that securing the release of the victims remains a top priority for the state government and security operatives.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed terrorists invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele. During the attack, a teacher was killed, while more than 45 pupils and teachers were kidnapped.
Reflecting on the incident, the governor said it had been 27 days since the victims were forcefully taken from their schools, leaving families and communities worried and uncertain about their fate.
He acknowledged the anguish being experienced by the affected families, adding that while he had consistently reassured residents that the victims would be rescued and reunited with their loved ones, he understood that such assurances may provide little comfort as the days continue to pass.
Makinde stressed that neither the state government nor security agencies had eased their efforts, stating that, “Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees.”
Providing an update on the operation, he explained: “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.
“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 called on residents to remain alert and promptly report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, assuring them that all credible information would be acted upon without delay.
He also warned against spreading unconfirmed reports about the abduction, noting that, “Misinformation can compromise ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations.”
Makinde further appealed to residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing useful intelligence and to keep the abducted pupils and teachers in their prayers as efforts to secure their freedom continue.