Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, revealed on Friday that the rugged landscape and massive scale of the Old Oyo National Park are creating major hurdles for security teams working to rescue pupils and teachers kidnapped from the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in the Oriire Local Government Area.
In his “Newsletter No. 140,” released on Friday, Governor Makinde shared that intelligence suggests the victims are still being held somewhere within the Old Oyo National Park, nearly a month after they were taken.
He emphasized that the safety of these individuals remains the top priority for current security operations.
It has been 27 days since the May 15 incident, during which terrorists attacked the Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, as well as the Community Grammar School and L A Primary School in Esiele.
The attack resulted in the death of a teacher and the abduction of over 45 students and staff, plunging their families into deep distress.
While the governor has consistently promised that the victims will be rescued, he noted that he understands the mounting anxiety felt by families as the wait continues.
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Makinde reaffirmed that both the state government and security services remain fully committed to the mission, stating, “Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees.”
Explaining the difficulty of the mission, the governor noted, “Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten Local Government Areas in Oyo. 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.”
To support these efforts, Governor Makinde encouraged citizens to stay alert and report any suspicious activities via the state’s toll-free line, 615.
He also issued a stern warning against spreading rumors, adding, “Misinformation can compromise ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations.”
In closing, the governor requested that the public continue to assist security agencies with reliable information and keep the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in their thoughts and prayers as the rescue operation intensifies.
