Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that the abducted Oyo schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped nearly a month ago are still being held by their captors deep inside the Old Oyo National Park, raising fresh concerns about the prolonged ordeal and the challenges facing rescue efforts.
Key Highlights
- Makinde says abducted Oyo schoolchildren and teachers remain in captivity
- Victims have spent 27 days in the hands of suspected bandits
- Intelligence reports indicate they are being held inside Old Oyo National Park
- Security agencies continue search and rescue operations
- Difficult terrain poses major challenge to rescue mission
- Governor urges residents to support security agencies with credible information
The governor made the revelation in Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, stating that intelligence available to security agencies suggests the victims remain within the vast forest reserve despite ongoing efforts to secure their release.
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Makinde acknowledged the growing anxiety among families and residents, noting that uncertainty surrounding the fate of the victims has continued to deepen fears across affected communities.
“It has now been 27 days since these innocent schoolchildren and their teachers were forcibly taken from their schools,” the governor said.
According to him, security agencies remain committed to securing the victims’ freedom and are actively pursuing all available intelligence and operational leads.
“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” he stated.
Makinde explained that the location where the victims are believed to be held has significantly complicated rescue efforts.
He said intelligence reports point to the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a sprawling forest reserve covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across ten local government areas in Oyo State.
“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 explained.
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The disclosure highlights ongoing security concerns in parts of Oyo State, where criminal groups have increasingly exploited remote forest corridors for kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Makinde urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.
He also cautioned against the spread of unverified reports, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts and compromise security operations.
The governor appealed for continued public support and prayers as security agencies intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils, students, and teachers.
