Governor says government is ready to engage abductors to secure release of pupils and teachers, while security forces intensify efforts amid ongoing operation in Oriire LGA…..
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has confirmed that the state government is prepared to consider dialogue with the abductors behind the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, as authorities race to secure the release of kidnapped pupils, students, and teachers.
Speaking to journalists on Monday from his private residence in the Kolapo Ishola Estate area of Ibadan, Makinde described the situation as unstable and still unfolding, stressing that security operations remain active in the affected community.
According to him, 25 individuals were taken during the coordinated attacks on two schools in Ahoro Esinele community. He disclosed that seven students were abducted from Community Secondary School, while another 18 children, along with seven teachers, were taken from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School. The governor also confirmed that one person lost their life during the incident.
He noted that security agencies are currently engaged in an ongoing rescue mission, adding that the situation remains complex and sensitive given the nature of the terrain and the uncertainty surrounding the kidnappers’ movements.
To improve coordination, the state government has activated an operational situation room at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters in Ibadan. The centre, according to him, is being overseen by the Commissioner of Police and is expected to streamline intelligence sharing and ensure the public receives verified updates.
While reaffirming that the state will not bow to terrorism, Makinde maintained that saving lives remains the immediate priority. He stated that the government is open to engaging the abductors if such communication would lead to the safe return of the victims, emphasizing that the captives are citizens who must be brought home unharmed.
He also appealed for caution in media reporting, warning against sensational coverage that could disrupt rescue efforts or create confusion while operations are ongoing.
On broader security measures, the governor revealed that surveillance aircraft recently acquired by the state have arrived in Nigeria and are currently being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force facility in Lagos. He said the aircraft, expected to be fully operational by the end of June, will enhance monitoring of border communities between Oyo and neighbouring states, as well as the international boundary with the Republic of Benin.
Makinde added that the acquisition was a proactive step aimed at strengthening surveillance across vulnerable areas, even though the current incident was not anticipated.
Efforts by security forces, he said, remain ongoing as authorities work toward ensuring the safe return of all abducted victims.
