Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed that security intelligence indicates that pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area nearly a month ago are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park corridor.
The governor disclosed this in Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, providing the most comprehensive update so far on efforts to rescue the victims who were kidnapped from schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities.
Expressing concern over the prolonged captivity, Makinde acknowledged the pain and uncertainty faced by families and residents since the abduction occurred 27 days ago.
According to him, families have continued to endure the emotional burden of being separated from their loved ones, while communities remain anxious over the fate of the victims.
The governor admitted that repeated assurances from government officials may have become difficult for affected families to believe, given the length of time the victims have remained in captivity.
However, he insisted that the state government and security agencies have not relented in their efforts to secure their freedom.
Makinde said authorities were pursuing every credible lead and taking all lawful measures available to bring the abducted pupils and teachers home safely, although operational details could not be made public for security reasons.
Addressing relatives and friends of those still being held, the governor assured them that the victims remained the government’s central focus and had not been forgotten despite the passage of time.
Providing insight into the ongoing operation, Makinde said intelligence reports had narrowed the location of the captives to the broader Old Oyo National Park axis.
He explained that the area spans parts of 10 local government areas in Oyo State and covers approximately 2,500 square kilometres, making search and rescue efforts particularly challenging.
The governor noted that the vast expanse and difficult terrain of the area require patience, coordination and sustained efforts from security operatives.
He stressed that the abduction was not solely a concern for Oriire Local Government Area but a matter affecting the entire state, calling on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.
Makinde urged members of the public to report any suspicious movement or activity through the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number, 615, describing the service as a toll-free emergency line that operates round the clock.
He also warned against the circulation of unverified information, saying false reports could undermine ongoing rescue operations and jeopardise efforts to secure the release of the victims.
The governor appealed to residents to rely on official channels for updates regarding the abduction and the rescue mission.
He further called for continued prayers, vigilance and public support for security agencies as efforts intensify to bring the abducted pupils and teachers back to their families safely.
