Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that the students and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area nearly a month ago are still being held within the Old Oyo National Park.
The governor made the revelation in his Newsletter No. 140 released on Friday, assuring residents that security agencies are working relentlessly to secure the safe release of the victims.
According to Makinde, it has been 27 days since the students and their teachers were kidnapped, leaving their families and communities increasingly anxious over their safety and whereabouts.
The victims were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esinle on May 15, 2026.
Acknowledging the pain and uncertainty faced by affected families, the governor said he understands that repeated assurances may offer little comfort as the days continue to pass without the victims’ return.
Despite the prolonged captivity, Makinde maintained that the state government and security agencies have remained committed to securing the release of the abductees.
“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” he stated.
The governor revealed that intelligence reports indicate the victims are being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast area spanning approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.
He explained that the park’s expansive size and difficult terrain have created significant operational challenges for security personnel, necessitating patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to achieve a successful rescue mission.
Makinde reiterated that security agencies have not relaxed their efforts and remain focused on bringing the victims home safely.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free emergency line, 615, assuring them that all credible information would receive prompt attention.
The governor also warned against the spread of unverified reports about the abduction, noting that misinformation could hinder ongoing rescue operations and compromise security efforts.
He appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful intelligence and to keep the abducted students and teachers in their prayers as efforts to secure their freedom continue.