By JOSHUA OLADIPO

Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun has directed immediate revitalisation of the Safe School Initiative, following recent case of kidnapping in schools in Oyo State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that gunmen on Friday invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota and Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, Orire Local Government Area, and abducted pupils, students, teachers and a vice Principal.

Two persons, a primary school head teacher and a motorcyclist were also killed during the attack.

Mr Olawale Rasheed, the governor’s spokesperson, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Osogbo.,

Rasheed quoted Adeleke as saying that the move is a precautionary measure, aimed at preventing any possible spillover of school kidnapping incidents into Osun.

The governor further directed immediate strengthening of intelligence gathering around schools located in border communities and remote parts of the state.

“The Osun Amotekun Corps has been instructed to deepen collaboration with non-governmental peace and security organisations currently supporting security operations in schools across the state.

“I assured parents and school authorities of the safety of pupils and students across the state.

“The special adviser on security matters has been instructed to work with service commanders and relevant agencies on the implementation of the new security measures,” Adeleke said.

He added that his administration had resolved to secure pupils in the school system in the state.

The governor stated that more necessary steps were being considered to improve security in schools, especially in rural areas.

“The existing safe school plan would be strengthened.

“The Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole and the security adviser must immediately meet, to firm up the revitalisation plan,” Adeleke ordered. (NAN)