President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and directed the deployment of a specialised security team to intensify efforts to rescue pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The measures were announced during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities on Sunday following the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15.
The delegation conveyed the President’s concern over the incident and reassured residents that the Federal Government was committed to securing the safe return of all victims.
According to the delegation, the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards will be carried out in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as part of efforts to strengthen security and improve surveillance in vulnerable areas.
The team also disclosed that a request by community leaders and lawmakers for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.
In addition, the President has directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to support ongoing operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted teachers and schoolchildren.
The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe, and Presidential Adviser on Media and Public Communications Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said President Tinubu was deeply disturbed by the abduction and had directed the nation’s security leadership to deploy all necessary resources to secure the victims’ freedom.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” he said.
He assured families of the abducted victims that rescue efforts would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to ensure the safe recovery of those in captivity.
During the visit, the delegation also paid a condolence visit to the palace of Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, where they sympathised with the traditional ruler and the people of Ogbomosoland over the incident.
The delegation further met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, widow of a teacher killed during the attack, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s condolences and assured the family of government support.
The abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area has generated widespread concern across Oyo State, with security agencies continuing operations to secure the release of the victims and apprehend those responsible.
