President Bola Tinubu has assured that all victims abducted during the recent attack on schools in Oyo State will be rescued, while condemning the reported killing of one of the kidnapped teachers.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said security agencies are working “round the clock” to secure the release of the abducted students and teachers and to apprehend the perpetrators.
Bandits had invaded Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on Friday, targeting Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School, where staff and pupils were abducted.
Tinubu described the killing of one of the abducted teachers as “barbaric” and extended condolences to the Oyo State Government and affected families.
“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by the gunmen who invaded the community,” the President said, adding that the Federal Government is coordinating closely with the state to ensure a swift rescue.
He also commended the Inspector-General of Police and Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara States for their rapid response, including the deployment of tactical units and the Intelligence Response Team (IRT).
According to him, the IGP is personally overseeing a technology-driven operation aimed at locating and rescuing the victims.
“The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” Tinubu stated.
The President further reiterated his support for the creation of state police, urging the National Assembly to expedite legislation to strengthen local security structures in underserved areas.
Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed the killing of one of the abducted teachers, stating that seven teachers and an unconfirmed number of pupils were taken during the attack. He said efforts to rescue the remaining victims were ongoing.
Meanwhile, teachers in Ogbomoso staged a peaceful protest on Monday, shutting down classroom activities and marching to the TESCOM office to demand urgent government action and improved security in schools.
The protest followed growing concerns over repeated kidnappings and insecurity affecting education in parts of the state.
