Gov Makinde Releases Fresh Updates on Kidnapped Oyo Schoolchildren

He noted that it has been 27 days since the coordinated attacks on schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities, which has caused significant distress for many families.

The abductions occurred during attacks on the Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esinle on May 15. Acknowledging the pain and anxiety experienced by parents and relatives of the abductees, Makinde recognized that the prolonged wait has been difficult.

Makinde expressed understanding of the concerns within the affected communities, indicating that assurances from the government may not alleviate the worries of families awaiting the safe return of their loved ones.

The governor, however, maintained that security agencies are working round the clock to bring the victims home safely.

“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” he said.

He explained that intelligence available to the government indicates that the victims are still within the wider Old Oyo National Park corridor.

Makinde noted that the vast forest, which stretches across about 2,500 square kilometres and cuts across several local government areas, has created major operational challenges for security personnel.

According to him, the difficult terrain requires careful planning, strategic coordination and patience to avoid putting the lives of the captives at further risk.

The governor also appealed to residents to remain alert and report suspicious movements to security authorities through the state’s toll-free emergency line, stressing that useful information from members of the public could assist ongoing operations.