A high-powered Federal Government delegation on Sunday visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the abduction of 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 Bola Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the safe return of the victims.
As part of immediate measures to strengthen security in the area, President Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the 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 conveyed to the President for consideration.
In addition, the President directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts aimed at securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President’s decision to dispatch the nation’s top security officials to the affected communities underscored his determination 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. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.
“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 said.
The delegation also paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Royal Majesty Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and the people of the area over the incident.
The team further met with Mrs Mary Oyedokun, wife of the deceased teacher, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s condolences to the family and assured them that the Federal Government would provide support and ensure they do not suffer hardship in the aftermath of their loss.
