Tinubu Vows Safe Return of Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers, Says ‘No Child Belongs in Captivity’

 

Tinubu Vows Safe Return of Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers, Says ‘No Child Belongs in Captivity’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the safe return of pupils, students, and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, declaring that every available lawful measure will be deployed to rescue the victims.  

The President made the remarks amid growing public concern over the May 15 abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities. The incident has triggered protests, calls for stronger security measures, and an indefinite strike action by teachers in parts of Oyo State.  

In a statement released through the Presidency, Tinubu expressed sympathy for the affected families and emphasized that children should never be subjected to the trauma of kidnapping.

“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,” the President stated.  

Tinubu disclosed that security agencies have been directed to intensify ongoing rescue operations using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. According to him, the rescue mission will remain intelligence-driven, carefully coordinated, and sustained until all the victims are safely reunited with their families.  

The President also approved the deployment of a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to support ongoing efforts in the affected communities. The move is expected to strengthen intelligence gathering and operational response in the search for the abducted victims.  

As part of broader measures to tackle insecurity in the area, Tinubu announced the approval of the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government. The initiative is aimed at improving surveillance and denying criminal groups access to forest corridors often used as hideouts.  

The President further revealed that requests by community leaders for the establishment of a military base in the area are receiving urgent consideration. Security experts believe such a facility could improve rapid response capabilities and strengthen security across vulnerable communities.  

Earlier, Tinubu had condemned the reported killing of one of the abducted teachers, describing the act as barbaric and unacceptable. He assured residents that the Federal Government is working closely with the Oyo State Government, the police, and other security agencies to rescue all victims and bring those responsible to justice.  

The President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who led a Federal Government delegation to the affected communities, said Tinubu is “deeply troubled” by the incident and has directed security agencies to spare no effort in ensuring the victims’ safe return.  

Despite ongoing rescue efforts, authorities have yet to announce the release of all abducted pupils and teachers. Security operations remain active, while families, community leaders, and education stakeholders continue to appeal for urgent action to bring the victims home safely.