President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered a specialised security team with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify operations for the release of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire LGA.
The measures were announced Sunday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, after a high-level federal delegation visited Esiele and Yawota communities on May 31, 2026.
The delegation was led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, CDS Gen. Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser Sunday Dare.
Forest guards + rescue push
Tinubu directed the Oyo State Government to partner with the federal government to recruit 1,000 forest guards to secure forested areas linked to the abductions. He also mandated the specialised team to step up intelligence-led rescue operations.
Speaking to residents in English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said: “Mr President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies.”
Responding to parents’ appeals for caution, he assured: “The operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures. Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely.”
The delegation also said the communities’ request for a military base has been forwarded to the President for consideration. They paid condolence visits to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, HRM Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, and to the family of slain teacher Michael Oyedokun, conveying Tinubu’s condolences to his widow, Mrs Mary Oyedokun.
16 days after the attack
The abductions happened on May 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele and Yawota. Dozens of pupils and teachers were taken.
The attack also claimed lives: Mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun was beheaded, a motorcyclist was killed, and a security operative died after stepping on IEDs planted by the abductors during initial rescue efforts.
Authorities believe the criminals are using the thick forest belt around the communities as cover, prompting the new security measures to restore safety and prevent future attacks.
