Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that school children and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of the state are being held within the Old Oyo National Park.
The revelation comes in an update on the rescue efforts released by the Governor on Friday, nearly four weeks after their abduction.
According to him, security agencies are actively working to secure the safe release of the victims, who were whisked away during coordinated attacks on schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities on May 15, 2026.
Governor Makinde noted that intelligence reports indicate that the abductees remain within the expansive Old Oyo National Park area, which spans about 2,500 square kilometres across ten local government areas in Oyo State.
He explained that the vast and difficult terrain of the park has created operational challenges for security personnel, requiring careful planning, coordination, and sustained efforts to achieve a successful rescue mission.
Makinde assured residents that every credible lead is being pursued and all lawful measures are being deployed to ensure the victims are rescued unharmed. He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.
The governor further warned against the spread of unverified information, noting that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue operations.
He called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information and to keep the abducted students and teachers in their prayers as efforts to secure their freedom continue.
Excerpts from Governor’s Statement reads;
“It has been 27 days since our children and teachers were forcefully taken from their schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
Our security reports indicate that they remain within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis. This is a vast area that stretches across parts of 10 local government areas in our State, covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.
If you see anything suspicious, please call 615, the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number. The line is toll-free and staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your report will be received and acted upon.”