Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that students and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state are still believed to be held within the Old Oyo National Park.
In his Newsletter No. 140 issued on Friday, Makinde said the victims remain the primary focus of ongoing security operations aimed at securing their release.
The governor noted that 27 days have passed since the coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, where students and staff were taken on Friday, May 15, 2026.
He expressed sympathy for affected families, acknowledging the distress caused by the prolonged uncertainty, even as he reiterated earlier assurances that efforts to rescue the victims were still ongoing.
Makinde maintained that security agencies have continued active operations, stressing that “Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees.”
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He further explained that intelligence reports point to the Old Oyo National Park as the likely location where the abductees are being held, describing the area—covering about 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas—as difficult terrain that has slowed rescue efforts.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, with assurances that credible information would be promptly acted upon.
The governor also warned against the spread of false information, stating that, “Misinformation can compromise ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations.”
Makinde appealed for continued cooperation with security agencies and prayers for the safe return of the abducted students and teachers as rescue efforts continue.