Oyo School Abduction: Tinubu Approves Recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as part of efforts to strengthen security and tackle criminal activities in vulnerable communities.

The approval followed the visit of a high-level Federal Government delegation sent by the President to the Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where pupils and teachers were recently abducted.

In a statement on Monday, President Tinubu also directed the deployment of a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the kidnapped pupils and teachers.

The President disclosed that the request by residents for the establishment of a military base in the area is receiving urgent consideration by the Federal Government.

Expressing sympathy with the affected families, Tinubu said he shares their pain and anxiety, stressing that no child should be taken from the safety of a classroom and no parent should have to endure such anguish.

He assured Nigerians that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led, carefully coordinated and sustained, with security agencies deploying every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure the safe return of the victims.

The President also extended his deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun, who lost her life during the incident.

“Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” Tinubu said.