President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep condolences to the families affected by the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring Nigerians that efforts are ongoing to secure the safe return of the victims.
In a statement issued on Monday, the President said he shares in the pain and anxiety of the affected families following the attack on Esiele and Yawota communities, which has sparked nationwide concern over school security.
“No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu said.
He also sympathised with the family of a teacher killed during the attack, Mrs Mary Oyedokun, describing her death as a painful loss that will not be forgotten.
“I also extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” the President added.
Tinubu assured that rescue operations would continue in a coordinated and intelligence-driven manner, stressing that both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies were being deployed to ensure the victims are safely returned.
“Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he said.
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The President’s statement follows the deployment of a high-level Federal Government delegation to the affected communities. The team included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, among others.
Tinubu also approved additional security measures, including the deployment of a specialised rescue unit and the mobilisation of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to strengthen surveillance in forest areas believed to be used by criminal groups.
He further noted that a request for the establishment of a military base in the area is being urgently considered.
The abduction has continued to raise concerns over school safety and rural insecurity, with authorities assuring that ongoing operations are focused on securing the victims’ release and restoring calm in the affected communities.
