Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed that schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area are still being held within the Old Oyo National Park axis, nearly a month after the attack.
In a statement released on Friday through his Newsletter No. 140, Makinde said security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue the victims, who were kidnapped 27 days ago from schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities.
The governor said the abductees remain the focus of ongoing security operations, stressing that authorities are pursuing every credible lead to secure their safe release.
The victims were taken during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A Primary School, Esiele, on May 15, 2026.
Makinde acknowledged the pain and uncertainty facing affected families, noting that while the government has continued to assure residents of the victims’ rescue, he understands that the prolonged wait has deepened anxiety across the communities.
According to him, intelligence reports indicate the abductees are being held somewhere within the vast Old Oyo National Park, which spans about 2,500 square kilometres across ten local government areas in the state.
He explained that the difficult terrain and large expanse of the park have complicated rescue operations, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained security efforts.
The governor urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.
He also warned against spreading unverified information, saying misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts and security operations.
Makinde appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information and to keep the abducted students and teachers in their prayers as efforts to secure their safe return continue.
