Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has reassured families of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State that the government remains fully committed to securing their safe release.
In a message to residents, the governor acknowledged the pain and uncertainty being endured by families and communities, noting that it has been 27 days since the victims were forcefully taken from their schools.
“It is extremely difficult for me to even ask how you are doing,” Makinde said, expressing sympathy with the affected families.
The governor noted that for nearly a month, families have been separated from their loved ones, while communities continue to grapple with fear and uncertainty over the fate of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Makinde admitted that repeated assurances from government officials may no longer provide comfort to those affected, but insisted that efforts to secure the victims’ release have not relented.
“I know that many times I have said, ‘We will get them home safely.’ But I also know that having heard these words so often, without seeing that outcome yet, they may now sound hollow or empty. Please trust that they are not. We are doing everything within our power to bring them home safely,” he stated.
According to the governor, security agencies and relevant authorities are actively pursuing every credible lead and deploying all lawful measures available to secure the release of those in captivity.
While declining to disclose operational details for security reasons, Makinde assured residents that the abducted pupils and teachers remain at the centre of government’s attention and rescue efforts.
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Addressing relatives, friends and colleagues of the victims, the governor said no statement could adequately ease their pain but stressed that the captives have not been forgotten.
He disclosed that intelligence reports indicate that the abducted individuals are believed to be within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast territory spanning parts of 10 local government areas in Oyo State and covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.
Makinde explained that the size and difficult terrain of the area underscore the complexity of the rescue operation and highlight why the challenge extends beyond Oriire Local Government Area alone.
“This is not an issue affecting only Oriire Local Government Area. It is an issue that concerns all of us,” he said, adding that the scale of the operation requires patience, coordination and persistence from all stakeholders involved.
The governor also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing security efforts by reporting suspicious activities through the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.
“If you see anything suspicious, please call 615. The line is toll-free and staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your report will be received and acted upon,” he said.
Makinde further urged residents to refrain from spreading unverified information regarding the abductions, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue operations.
He assured the public that the state government would continue to provide factual updates through official channels while working closely with security agencies to ensure the safe return of all those abducted.
The governor appealed for continued prayers, vigilance and public support as efforts intensify to bring the pupils and teachers home safely.
“Continue to pray for their safe return. Continue to remain vigilant. And continue to support the efforts of our security agencies as we work towards bringing every one of them home safely,” he said.
Makinde concluded by thanking residents for their patience, vigilance and prayers, reiterating his administration’s determination to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
