Abducted Oyo Students, Teachers Still Within National Park — Makinde

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area remain within the Old Oyo National Park axis, nearly a month after they were taken by suspected bandits.

Makinde made the disclosure on Friday in Newsletter No. 140, providing an update on the ongoing efforts to rescue the victims and reunite them with their families.

The governor noted that it has been 27 days since the coordinated attacks on schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities led to the abduction of scores of students and teachers, leaving relatives and residents anxiously awaiting their return.

The victims were kidnapped during attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, on May 15, 2026.

According to Makinde, intelligence reports indicate that the abductees are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park area, a vast forest region covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.

He explained that the size and terrain of the forest continue to present major operational challenges for security personnel involved in the rescue mission.

The governor, however, assured residents that security agencies remain fully committed to securing the release of the victims.

“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” Makinde stated.

He acknowledged the pain and uncertainty being experienced by the affected families, noting that while the government has repeatedly assured residents that the victims will be rescued, the prolonged wait remains difficult for loved ones.

Makinde urged residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing security operations by reporting suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.

He assured the public that all credible information received would be treated promptly and professionally by relevant authorities.

The governor also warned against the spread of rumours and unverified reports surrounding the abduction, stressing that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts and compromise security operations.

He appealed to residents to continue cooperating with security agencies and to keep the abducted pupils and teachers in their prayers as efforts intensify to ensure their safe return.

Makinde reiterated that the state government remains determined to secure the freedom of the victims and restore confidence in public safety across affected communities.