Tinubu deploys special security unit to rescue abducted Oyo pupils, teachers

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The President disclosed this in a statement personally signed on Monday following the visit of a high-level Federal Government delegation to the affected Esiele and Yawota communities on Sunday.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers invaded schools in the area and abducted 46 people, including 39 pupils and seven teachers.

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Tinubu said the Federal Government was taking additional measures to strengthen security in the area and prevent future attacks.

According to him, he has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to improve surveillance and security across vulnerable communities.

“I have also directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers,” the President said.

He added that the request by residents for the establishment of a military base in the area was receiving urgent consideration.

Tinubu expressed sympathy with the affected families, assuring them that the government would deploy every lawful means to secure the victims’ release.

“I share the pain and anxiety of the affected families. No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” he said.

The President said rescue operations would be intelligence-driven, carefully coordinated and sustained until the victims were safely reunited with their families.

“Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he added.

Tinubu also extended his condolences to the family of Mrs Mary Oyedokun, a teacher who died in connection with the attack. “I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” he said.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting schools, communities and citizens across the country.