Nearly four weeks after schoolchildren and teachers were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo state on May 15, 2026, Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that the victims are still being held within the Old Oyo National Park.
According to the governor, intelligence reports indicate that the abductees remain within the expansive Old Oyo National Park area, which spans about 2,500 square kilometres across ten local government areas in Oyo State.
He explained that the vast and difficult terrain of the park has created operational challenges for security personnel, requiring careful planning, coordination and sustained efforts to achieve a successful rescue mission.
Makinde assured residents that every credible lead is being pursued and all lawful measures are being deployed to ensure the victims are rescued unharmed. He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.
The governor further warned against the spread of unverified information, noting that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue operations. He called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information and to keep the abducted students and teachers in their prayers as efforts to secure their freedom continue.
