Oyo State Government, Makinde, provides an update on the abducted students and teachers

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday provided an update on the situation surrounding schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped by bandits in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of ​​the state.

He said the victims were still in Old Oyo National Park, and they remained the focus of ongoing security operations.

Makinde stated this in his Bulletin No. 140 released on Friday, although he noted that it had been 27 days since students and teachers were forcibly taken from their schools, leaving their families and communities in distress and uncertainty.

The 46 teachers and students were kidnapped in coordinated attacks at Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and LA Primary School, Esiele on Friday, May 15 2026.

The governor acknowledged the pain and anxiety experienced by the victims’ families, stating that although he has repeatedly assured citizens that the victims will be rescued and reunited with their loved ones, he understands that such assurances may not provide much comfort as time goes by.

Makinde stressed that the state government and security agencies are not relenting in their efforts, stressing that, “Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful action is being taken to ensure the safe release of the abductees.

“Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held in the wider Old Oyo National Park area, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometers across ten local government areas of Oyo State.

“The size and difficult terrain of the area poses significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination and sustained efforts to ensure the success of rescue operations.”

Therefore, the Governor urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity via the toll-free Citizen Inquiry Number, 615, to assure the public that all credible reports will receive prompt attention.

He also warned against circulating unverified information regarding the kidnapping, and warned that, “Misinformation could jeopardize ongoing rescue efforts and hamper security operations.”

Makinde appealed to citizens to continue to provide support to security agencies by providing useful information and continue to pray for the abducted students and teachers as efforts intensify to ensure their safe return.