Abducted Pupils, Teachers Still Held in Old Oyo National Park, Governor Discloses

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that the students and teachers abducted nearly a month ago remain in captivity within the expansive Old Oyo National Park. The victims were taken during coordinated attacks on multiple schools in the Oriire local government area on May 15, 2026, leaving families and communities in deep anxiety.

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Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees.

Makinde acknowledged the prolonged worry of the affected families, assuring them that security agencies are relentlessly pursuing every credible lead and employing all lawful measures for a safe rescue. Intelligence reports pinpoint the victims' location within the park's vast expanse, which covers approximately 2,500 square kilometers across ten local government areas. The challenging terrain and sheer size of the park present significant operational hurdles for the security personnel involved in the rescue mission.

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Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.

The governor urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities via the state's emergency line, 615. He cautioned against spreading unverified information, warning that misinformation could jeopardize ongoing rescue operations and compromise security efforts. Makinde appealed for continued support and prayers for the abducted students and teachers as the efforts to secure their freedom persist.

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The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation.