President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and the deployment of a special rescue unit in response to the recent abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State.
In a statement released Sunday, Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced the measures following a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area. The visit came after the abduction of pupils and staff from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
To immediately enhance security, President Tinubu authorised the hiring of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State in partnership with the state government. The delegation also assured community leaders and lawmakers that their call for a military base in the area would be relayed to the President for his consideration.
Additionally, President Tinubu has directed a specialised security team with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The delegation, led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications Sunday Dare. They conveyed President Tinubu’s deep concern and his commitment to ensuring the victims’ safe return.
During the visit to Ogbomoso, the officials met with local leaders, lawmakers, and families of the victims. Gbajabiamila emphasised that the President’s decision to send top security officials underscored his resolve to use every available resource to rescue the abducted children and teachers.
“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,” Gbajabiamila said.
He added, “Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms. The rescue operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to ensure the safe return of the victims.”
The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to express their condolences, and met with Mary Oyedokun, the wife of the deceased school teacher, and her two children.
