Malik Yahya/
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered the deployment of a specialised security unit to intensify efforts to rescue pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The intervention followed a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities on Sunday in response to the May 15 abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
The delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, conveyed Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident and reassured residents of the government’s determination to secure the safe return of the victims.
Other members of the delegation included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa; Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents in English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said Tinubu had directed security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to ensure the victims were rescued unharmed.
“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 to achieve that objective,” he said.
He assured anxious parents and community members that the rescue operation would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated.
“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts. Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he added.
As part of efforts to strengthen security across the affected area, the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.
The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be presented to the President for consideration and possible approval.
During the visit, the Federal Government delegation paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, where they sympathised with the traditional ruler and residents over the tragedy.
The team also visited Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, widow of a teacher who lost his life in the incident, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s condolences and assured the family of government support.
The President’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and rural communities.
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