Tinubu Condemns Killing of Abducted Oyo Teacher, Assures Rescue of Kidnapped Victims

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted during last Friday’s attack on schools in Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric and unacceptable.

The President, in a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, assured Nigerians that security agencies were intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

Bandits had reportedly invaded the Esiele community, abducting staff, students, and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.

According to the Presidency, security operatives have launched coordinated operations aimed at securing the safe release of the victims while tracking down the attackers and their alleged collaborators.

President Tinubu sympathised with Governor Seyi Makinde, the government, and the people of Oyo State over the incident, pledging full federal support for ongoing rescue efforts.

“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by the gunmen who invaded the community. I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps he has taken on the matter. I sympathise with the families of the kidnapped victims,” the President stated.

He disclosed that the Federal Government was working closely with the Oyo State Government to ensure the victims are rescued safely.

Tinubu also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara states for what he described as swift intervention and deployment of tactical and Intelligence Response Team (IRT) operatives to the affected area.

“The IGP, following my instructions, is personally leading the tech-driven operation. We expect a breakthrough soon. The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he added.

The President further stated that the recurring incidents of kidnapping across the country reinforce the need for the establishment of state police to strengthen local security architecture, particularly in underserved communities.

“Cases of kidnapping further make imperative the establishment of state police to man some of our underserved areas. The National Assembly should accelerate the enactment of the law creating state police,” Tinubu said.

The latest attack has sparked renewed national concern over insecurity in schools and rural communities, amid growing calls for stronger security measures and faster response mechanisms to protect vulnerable populations.