Oyo Kidnap: Tinubu orders 1,000 forest guards, deploys special rescue team

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

The Federal Government high-powered delegation on Sunday, visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after the May 15 abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.

The delegation conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s deep concern and his commitment to securing the safe return of the victims.

As an immediate measure, Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government.

President Tinubu has also directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

Leaders in the affected communities had requested a military base. The delegation said that request would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval.

The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd) and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

Addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President’s decision to dispatch the nation’s top security leadership to the affected communities reflected his determination to deploy every available resource towards securing the victims’ release.

A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted the Chief of Staff as saying: “Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident.

“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.

“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.

“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts. Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he said.

According to the statement, the delegation visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people.

They also met Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, the wife of the deceased school teacher, and her two children. Gbajabiamila delivered the President’s condolences with a promise that the family “will not suffer.”

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