Abducted Pupils and Teachers Still Held at Old Oyo National Park, Says Makinde

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, announced yesterday that the students and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire local government area nearly a month ago are still being held inside the Old Oyo National Park. The statement was made in his Newsletter No. 140, where he reassured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to secure the victims’ safe release.

According to the Governor, 27 days have passed since the school children and their teachers were taken, leaving families and communities deeply concerned about their fate. The abductions occurred during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School in Esinle on May 15, 2026.

The Governor acknowledged the pain and anxiety experienced by the affected families. He said that although he has repeatedly assured residents that the victims would be rescued and reunited with their loved ones, he understands that such assurances may offer little comfort as days continue to pass.

Makinde maintained that the state government and security agencies have not relented in their efforts. He stated, “Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees. 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 State.”

“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,” he added. He reiterated that security agencies are pursuing every credible lead to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.

Makinde urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll‑free emergency line, 615, adding that all useful information would be treated promptly. He also cautioned against the spread of unverified reports concerning the abduction, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue operations and compromise security efforts.

The governor appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information and to keep the abducted students and teachers in their prayers as efforts to secure their freedom continue.