President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised that all efforts will be made to rescue the teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State.

According to him, security agencies have been directed to deploy every lawful means available, including both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, to ensure the safe return of the victims.

“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,” President Tinubu said in a statement posted on his X handle on Monday.

The President also expressed deep sorrow over the killing of a teacher during the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, and extended his condolences to his wife, Mrs Mary Oyedokun.

“I also extend my deepest condolences to Mrs Mary Oyedokun, the wife of the late school teacher and her family. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his family will not be abandoned.,” he stated.

Also, President Tinubu stressed that children should never be subjected to the trauma of abduction.

“No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu assured the affected communities that ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers would remain sustained, coordinated and intelligence-driven.

The statement comes amid heightened concern over the May 15, 2026 abduction, which prompted the Federal Government to dispatch a high-level delegation to the affected communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, among other senior government and security officials.

Tinubu also reiterated measures already approved to strengthen security in the area, including the deployment of a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities.

“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 further disclosed that, in collaboration with the Oyo State Government, the Federal Government is mobilising 1,000 forest guards to improve surveillance in forest corridors often exploited by armed groups.

He added that the initiative would be backed by broader operational measures designed to enhance rescue operations and prevent future attacks.

Tinubu also revealed that a request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area is receiving urgent consideration.

Concerns over the safety of schools and rural settlements have deepened following the abduction in Esiele and Yawota communities, with authorities maintaining that rescue operations are ongoing and focused on securing the release of the victims, alongside efforts to reinforce security in vulnerable areas. (Chanels)

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