Gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, abducting around 39 pupils and seven teachers. The victims, including very young children, were taken from communities in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle.
One teacher was killed during or shortly after the raid. Reports identified victims among nursery, primary, and secondary school levels. The abductors fled into the vast Old Oyo National Park.
Governor Seyi Makinde has led efforts to secure their release. In statements and briefings, he confirmed the numbers: about 18 primary pupils, seven secondary students, and seven teachers. He noted one teacher’s death.
“I give you the assurance that I, as governor of this state, will bring those children home. And once they are out, it will never happen again,” Makinde said while addressing families and protesters.
He added readiness to listen to the abductors’ demands while refusing to surrender to terror. “We will not give in to terror. We will do everything possible to ensure that our children and their teachers are returned safely,” the governor stated.
Makinde recently told protesters, including activist VeryDarkMan, outside the government house in Ibadan: “If you ask me, I can sacrifice myself for those kidnapped school children and teachers to be released.” He emphasised ongoing special operations and urged public patience.
Intelligence points to the victims’ location in the challenging terrain of the national park. Security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force with surveillance aircraft, Amotekun, and others, are involved in rescue efforts.
Families continue to endure anxiety nearly a month later. Public reactions include protests and a teachers’ strike. Makinde has appealed for calm and community support to aid operations.
The governor suspended school field trips and sought federal collaboration. As efforts intensify, focus remains on the safe return of all victims without further loss.

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