Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday provided an updated account of ongoing efforts to rescue schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in Oriire Local Government Area, confirming that the victims are still believed to be within the Old Oyo National Park.
In Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, the governor said the abducted students and teachers remain the central focus of active security operations.
He 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, during which dozens of pupils and staff were taken, plunging families and communities into prolonged distress and uncertainty.
Makinde acknowledged the anguish of affected families, saying that while he has consistently assured residents that efforts are underway to secure the victims’ release, he understands that such assurances may offer limited comfort as the situation drags on.
He reiterated that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, has not relented in its response, adding: “Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees.”
According to him, intelligence reports indicate the victims are being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast and difficult terrain spanning about 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.
He said the size and challenging geography of the area continue to complicate rescue operations, requiring sustained coordination, patience, and strategic deployment of security resources.
The governor urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity through the state’s toll-free Citizens’ Enquiry Number, 615, assuring that all credible information would be promptly acted upon.
He also warned against the spread of unverified reports about the abductions, noting that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations.
Makinde appealed for continued public support for security agencies and asked residents to keep the abducted students and teachers in their thoughts as efforts intensify to secure their safe return.
