Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has acknowledged that the vast and rugged landscape of the Old Oyo National Park is complicating security operations aimed at rescuing schoolchildren and teachers abducted nearly four weeks ago in Oriire Local Government Area.
According to his Newsletter No. 140 released Friday, intelligence gathered by security agencies suggests the victims are still being held within the park’s boundaries. The reserve covers about 2,500 square kilometres across ten local councils, making it one of the most challenging areas for coordinated rescue missions.
The abduction occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked three schools in Oriire, killing a teacher and abducting more than 45 pupils and staff.
Makinde said 27 days have now passed since the incident, stressing that “intelligence continues to point to the victims being held within the Old Oyo National Park.” He added that “every credible lead is being pursued” and that security agencies are “deploying all lawful measures to secure their release.”
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He further explained, “Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten Local Government Areas in Oyo. The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation.”
The governor noted that while he has repeatedly assured residents of ongoing efforts to secure the release of the victims, he understands that such assurances may not ease the pain of families waiting for their loved ones. He urged residents to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity through the state’s toll‑free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.
Makinde also cautioned against the spread of unverified information, warning that misinformation could compromise rescue operations. He appealed to the public to continue supporting security agencies with useful intelligence and to keep the abducted pupils and teachers in their prayers as efforts intensify.
