BY FRONTLINE REPORTERS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound grief over the killing of a teacher during the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, while reaffirming his administration’s determination to secure the release of those still being held captive.
In a statement issued on Monday, the President said he shared the pain, anxiety and anguish of families affected by the attack on Esiele and Yawota communities, stressing that schools must remain safe havens for learning and not targets for criminal violence.
“No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu declared.
The President paid glowing tribute to the late Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, the teacher who lost her life during the attack, describing her death as a tragic loss and assuring that her sacrifice would not be forgotten.
“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.
Tinubu assured residents of the affected communities that efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers would remain relentless, coordinated and intelligence-driven until every victim is safely reunited with their families.
According to him, security agencies have been directed to deploy all lawful measures, including both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, to ensure the successful rescue of the victims.
“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,” the President stated.
The assurance comes amid growing concern over the May 15, 2026 abduction, which prompted the Federal Government to dispatch a high-powered delegation to the affected communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, alongside other senior government and security officials.
As part of measures to strengthen security and accelerate rescue operations, Tinubu announced the deployment of a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities.
“I have directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers,” he said.
The President further disclosed that the Federal Government, in partnership with the Oyo State Government, is mobilising 1,000 forest guards to enhance surveillance and security across forest corridors frequently exploited by criminal elements.
He noted that the initiative forms part of a broader security strategy designed to improve response capabilities, support rescue efforts and prevent future attacks on vulnerable communities.
Tinubu also revealed that a request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area is receiving urgent consideration as part of efforts to bolster security presence and deter criminal activities.
The abduction has heightened concerns over the safety of schools and rural communities across the country, with authorities maintaining that rescue operations remain active and focused on securing the freedom of the victims while strengthening security architecture in vulnerable areas.
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