Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reassured residents that the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area will be rescued safely as security operations intensify across the state.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped on May 16, 2026, after suspected gunmen attacked communities within the local government area and forcefully took away several schoolchildren and teachers while they were returning from school activities. The incident sparked widespread panic among residents and renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of the state.
In recent days, tension has increased following the circulation of disturbing videos and images on social media allegedly linked to the abducted victims. Some of the clips reportedly showed the victims in distress while being subjected to harsh treatment by their captors, triggering outrage and emotional reactions online. Authorities, however, have urged the public to avoid sharing unverified or graphic content capable of escalating fear and trauma among affected families.
Speaking on Wednesday at his Ikolaba residence while hosting his deputy, Bayo Lawal, alongside other Muslim appointees ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, Governor Makinde said the government remains fully committed to securing the victims’ release.
“We are working round the clock to ensure that the abducted children and their teachers are reunited with their families safely,” the governor stated.
Makinde also sympathized with the families affected by the incident, praying for strength and comfort for parents and relatives going through emotional distress.
“I pray that God Almighty consoles those in despair and grants them peace during this difficult time,” he added.
The governor further appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid spreading fear through inflammatory messages or divisive narratives as political activities begin to intensify in the state.
He warned against using religion or ethnicity to create tension, emphasizing that unity and cooperation with security agencies are essential in addressing the security challenge.
Meanwhile, recent developments indicate that security operatives have expanded surveillance and rescue operations in surrounding areas, while community leaders continue to work closely with authorities in efforts aimed at ensuring the safe return of the victims.