A high-powered federal delegation traveled to Ogbomosho in Oyo State on Sunday to meet with community leaders and families devastated by the abduction of students, pupils, and teachers from three schools on May 15, 2026. The team included President Tinubu’s chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Defence Minister Christopher Musa; Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu; Power Minister Joseph Tegbe; and presidential media aide Sunday Dare.
Gbajabiamila delivered a personal message from Tinubu, telling the grieving community that the president feels their pain and has ordered all security agencies to bring the captives home safely. He noted that Tinubu had seen videos of those in captivity pleading for a non-violent resolution. The president promised an intelligence-driven approach focused on getting everyone back unharmed. Gbajabiamila also announced that trauma counselling and support systems would be set up for affected families, stressing that protecting every Nigerian child remains Tinubu’s top priority.
Ribadu described the abduction of infants as a troubling new tactic by kidnappers but vowed that the insecurity issue would be tackled. He revealed plans to deploy forest guards to Oyo State, especially around rural schools, to shield children from such attacks. Defence Minister Musa urged community leaders to work closely with security forces on the ground, adding that the entire Oriire area is being monitored using technology. He asked residents to report any suspicious people or activities to help speed up the rescue.
The visit comes amid rising public anger over the incident, which sparked protests and renewed calls for stronger school security in rural communities. Just a day earlier, Governor Seyi Makinde visited Ogbomoso to reassure families. He appealed for patience and unity, warning against assigning blame to either the state or federal government. Makinde described the abduction of young children as cruel and inhumane, regardless of any grievances the kidnappers might claim.
He revealed that since the attack, he has held security meetings twice daily and worked closely with agencies to bring the victims back. Makinde also praised the dedication of security commanders and the Western Security Network, known as Amotekun, whose operatives have sacrificed their lives protecting the state. He urged residents to keep praying for the rescue efforts and trust the government.
The abduction happened on May 15 when gunmen stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, taking 45 pupils and teachers. Days later, reports emerged that one teacher, a mathematics instructor, had been killed. The attack drew widespread condemnation, with both Makinde and Tinubu promising swift action.
But with many of the abductees still in captivity more than two weeks later, anxiety has only grown. Last Monday, teachers in Ogbomoso held a peaceful protest, suspending classes and marching to the Teaching Service Commission office. Carrying placards, they demanded urgent government intervention and stronger security around schools to guarantee safer learning environments.
