Oyo School Kidnap: Tinubu Deploys Special Rescue Team, Approves 1,000 Forest Guards
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered the deployment of a specialized security rescue team following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The announcement was made on Sunday during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities, where gunmen abducted pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, conveyed President Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to securing the safe return of all victims.
As part of immediate measures to strengthen security across the area, the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to enhance surveillance and deny criminals safe havens in forested areas.
The delegation also assured community leaders and elected representatives that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
In addition, President Tinubu directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify ongoing efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
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The delegation included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Inspector-General Tunji Disu; the Chief of Defence Staff, ; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President was deeply troubled by the abduction and had mobilized the nation’s top security leadership to ensure the victims’ safe return.
“Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” he said.
He further assured parents and community members that rescue efforts would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to safeguard the lives of the hostages.
The Federal Government delegation also paid a condolence visit to the palace of the , where they commiserated with traditional authorities and residents over the incident.
The team later met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, wife of a deceased teacher affected by the tragedy, and her two children. Gbajabiamila delivered President Tinubu’s condolences and assured the family of the government’s support.
The visit underscores the Federal Government’s determination to address growing security concerns in affected communities and bring those responsible for the abduction to justice while ensuring the safe return of the victims.