President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and the deployment of a specialized rescue team, responding to the abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced this on Sunday, following a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area. The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when pupils and teachers were taken from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
“As part of immediate measures to strengthen security in the area, President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government,” the statement said. “The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval.”
In addition, the President directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to step up efforts to free the abducted pupils and teachers.
The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications Sunday Dare. They conveyed Tinubu’s deep concern and commitment to securing the victims’ safe return.
During a visit to Ogbomoso on Saturday, the delegation met with community leaders and families. Gbajabiamila told residents that Tinubu’s decision to send top security officials to the affected communities showed his determination to use every available resource to bring the victims home.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” Gbajabiamila said. “Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.”
He added that the operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, using both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the victims’ release.
The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people. They met with Mary Oyedokun, the wife of a deceased school teacher, and her two children.
