Tinubu Deploys Special Rescue Team, Approves 1,000 Forest Guards After Oyo School Abduction

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and ordered the deployment of a specialized rescue team following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The measures were announced on Sunday when a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Ogbomoso to reassure residents of the government’s determination to secure the safe release of the victims.

The pupils and teachers were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School, sparking widespread concern across Oyo State.

Leading the delegation, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, conveyed President Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident and assured affected families that every available security resource was being deployed to rescue the victims.

According to the Presidency, the newly approved forest guards will be recruited in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as part of efforts to strengthen security and tackle criminal activities in forested areas often exploited by kidnappers.

The delegation also received requests from community leaders and lawmakers for the establishment of a military base in the area. Officials said the proposal would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.

In addition, the President directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify ongoing operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The delegation included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa; Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe; and the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

Addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President was “deeply troubled” by the abduction and had directed security agencies to employ both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to ensure the victims’ safe return.

“Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” Gbajabiamila said.

He also appealed for patience and assured residents that rescue efforts would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated to avoid endangering the victims.

During the visit, the Federal Government delegation paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, expressing solidarity with the people of Ogbomosoland over the tragic incident.

The delegation also met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, widow of a teacher who lost his life during the attack, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s condolences and assured the family of government support.

The latest intervention underscores growing federal efforts to curb kidnapping and insecurity in parts of the country, particularly attacks targeting schools and vulnerable communities.