Abducted Oyo schoolchildren, teachers still within national park – Makinde

Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, says schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted by bandits in Oriire LGA are still within the old Oyo National Park.

In a statement on Friday, Makinde said it has been 27 days since the students and teachers were abducted from their schools, leaving their families and communities in distress and uncertainty.

The governor said the state government and security agencies have not relented in their efforts to rescue the victims.

“Every credible lead is being pursued, and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” the statement reads.

“Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo state.

“The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation.”

Makinde also cautioned against the circulation of unverified information on the abduction, warning that “misinformation can compromise ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations”.

He urged residents to continue collaborating and support security agencies with useful information.