Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that the students and teachers kidnapped by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area remain in captivity within the Old Oyo National Park.
Providing an update in his Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, the governor said security agencies are still actively working to secure the release of the victims, who have now spent 27 days in captivity.
The schoolchildren and their teachers were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esinle on May 15, 2026. The incident left families and residents of the affected communities deeply worried about the fate of their loved ones.
Makinde acknowledged the emotional pain and uncertainty being experienced by relatives of the abductees. He noted that while the government has consistently reassured the public that the victims would be rescued, he understands that such promises may offer little relief as the days continue to pass.
The governor emphasized that neither the state government nor security operatives have eased their efforts, stressing that all available intelligence and lawful strategies are being deployed to ensure the safe recovery of those held captive.
According to him, security reports suggest that the victims are still being kept somewhere within the expansive Old Oyo National Park region, which spans roughly 2,500 square kilometres and stretches across parts of ten local government areas in the state.
He explained that the vast size of the park and its challenging terrain have made rescue operations more complex, requiring careful planning, sustained surveillance, and coordinated action by security personnel.
Makinde urged residents to remain alert and immediately report any suspicious movements or activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, assuring the public that all credible information would be treated with urgency.
He also warned against spreading unconfirmed reports about the abduction, noting that false information could disrupt ongoing rescue efforts and create additional obstacles for security agencies.
The governor appealed to citizens to continue cooperating with law enforcement authorities by providing useful intelligence and to keep the abducted students and teachers in their thoughts and prayers as efforts intensify to bring them home safely.
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