ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured families of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State that efforts to secure their release will continue, while mourning a teacher killed during the attack.
In a statement issued on Monday, the President expressed sympathy with families affected by the abduction of pupils and teachers from communities in Esiele and Yawota, describing the incident as a painful ordeal.
Tinubu said, “No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish.”
He also paid tribute to the late Mrs Mary Oyedokun, who was killed during the attack, extending condolences to her family.
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“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,” he said.
The President pledged that ongoing rescue efforts would be sustained through coordinated and intelligence-driven operations, using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to secure the victims’ freedom.
“Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he said.
The statement followed the visit of a Federal Government delegation to the affected communities after the May 15, 2026 abductions.
The delegation comprised senior government and security officials, including 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.
Tinubu also reaffirmed security measures already announced for the area, including the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities and the mobilisation of 1,000 forest guards in partnership with the Oyo State Government to strengthen surveillance around forest corridors used by criminal groups.
“I have also directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers,” he said.
The President added that a request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area was being given urgent consideration.
The abductions in Esiele and Yawota have renewed concerns over school safety and insecurity in rural communities, with authorities maintaining that efforts remain focused on rescuing the victims and improving security in vulnerable areas.