President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and directed the deployment of a specialized security unit to intensify efforts to rescue pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The measures were announced on Sunday during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities, where suspected bandits abducted pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The delegation conveyed President Tinubu’s concern over the incident and reassured residents of the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the safe release of all those still in captivity.
As part of efforts to strengthen security in the area, the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.
The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
In addition, President Tinubu directed a specialized security team equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted victims.
The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by senior police officials; the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; and other senior government representatives.
Addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President’s decision to send top security officials to the affected communities demonstrated his resolve to deploy every available resource to secure the victims’ release.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely.
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He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” he said.
He acknowledged the anxiety and pain being experienced by families of the victims and assured them that rescue operations would be carefully coordinated.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms,” he stated.
Gbajabiamila further disclosed that President Tinubu had taken note of appeals from parents and community members urging caution in rescue efforts.
“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts.
Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he added.
The delegation also paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, where they sympathised with the traditional ruler and members of the community over the incident.
They also visited the family of the late teacher, Mr. Oyedokun Olugbade, who was reportedly killed by the abductors.
During the visit, Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s condolences to the deceased’s wife, Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, and her children, assuring them of government support.
The visit comes amid growing public concern and calls for stronger security measures following the abduction, which has sparked protests by teachers, civil society groups and community leaders demanding the immediate rescue of the victims.