Oyo School Abduction: Authorities Blank On Total Number Of  Victims

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says the number of pupils abducted in Ahoro Esinele Community Oriire Local Government is yet to be ascertained,promising to ensure the safe release of all victims.

The governor stated this after a security review meeting held with security advisers and service commanders, saying the government was working tirelessly to rescue the abducted teachers and pupils.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Governor Makinde sympathised with the affected families, explaining that seven teachers had been confirmed kidnapped, while the exact number of abducted pupils was still being determined.

He also confirmed the death of one of the abducted teachers, reportedly a Mathematics teacher, describing the development as painful and heartbreaking. The governor extended condolences to the family of the deceased teacher.

Governor Makinde equally sympathised with security operatives, including soldiers, members of the Amotekun Corps and local vigilantes, who were injured after encountering Improvised Explosive Devices allegedly planted by the abductors during rescue operations.

He, however, noted that the injured personnel were responding well to treatment and assured them of government support.

The governor appealed for calm among residents, religious leaders and community stakeholders, stressing that the government was not taking the incident lightly.

He explained that authorities were combining different strategies to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims and to prevent further escalation of tension in the affected communities.

Governor Makinde further disclosed that some suspects had already been arrested in connection with the incident, while efforts were also being intensified with neighbouring states to tackle the movement of terrorists and bandits into Oyo State. He assured residents that the government would continue to provide daily updates on the rescue operation.