President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the deployment of special security measures, including the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and the establishment of a military base in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The directive came after a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited Esiele and Yawota communities on Sunday to assess the situation and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to rescuing the victims.
The affected schools include Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School, where pupils and teachers were kidnapped on May 15, 2026.
As part of immediate interventions, the Federal Government will collaborate with the Oyo State Government to recruit 1,000 forest guards aimed at strengthening security across vulnerable areas.
The delegation also conveyed requests from community leaders and lawmakers for the establishment of a military base in the area, noting that the proposal would be forwarded to the President for final approval.
In addition, Tinubu has directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted victims.
The delegation was led by the President’s chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the national security adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents in English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President was deeply concerned about the incident and had ordered all necessary measures to ensure the safe return of the victims.
“Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said, assuring that the rescue operation would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
The delegation also paid a condolence visit to the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, and later met with the family of a deceased teacher, Mary Oyedokun, where they conveyed the President’s sympathies and promised continued support.
The federal government reiterated its commitment to restoring security in the area and ensuring that those responsible for the abduction are brought to justice.
