Ribadu, IGP, Gbajabiamila, Defence Minister Visit Oyo Over Abducted Pupils, Teachers
Adedokun Waliyu
2 min read
Top Federal Government officials on Saturday visited Ogbomoso, Oyo State, to meet with community leaders and families affected by the abduction of teachers and pupils from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The delegation included Nuhu Ribadu, Olatunji Disu, Christopher Musa, and Femi Gbajabiamila.
Their visit followed the May 15 abduction of teachers and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area.
The Federal Government delegation met with community leaders and relatives of the victims as efforts continue to secure the release of those still being held captive.
The visit came amid growing concern and calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and rural communities across Oyo State.
Makinde Appeals For Unity
Also on Saturday, Seyi Makinde visited Ogbomoso and reassured residents that every available effort was being made to secure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
The governor urged residents to remain patient and cooperative, stressing that the situation should not become a matter of blame between the federal and state governments.
Makinde expressed sympathy for the affected families and described the incident as particularly painful because it involved the abduction of children.
He condemned the actions of the kidnappers, describing them as cruel, unacceptable, and inhumane.
The governor also paid tribute to members of the Western Security Network, known as Amotekun Corps, some of whom have lost their lives while combating insecurity in the state.
According to Makinde, since the abduction occurred, he has held security meetings twice daily and worked closely with security agencies to facilitate the victims’ rescue.
He commended security personnel for their dedication and called on residents to continue praying and supporting ongoing rescue efforts.
Growing Anxiety
The abduction took place when gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, abducting 45 pupils and teachers.
A few days later, one of the kidnapped teachers, reportedly a mathematics teacher, was said to have been killed by the abductors.
The incident attracted widespread condemnation, with both Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Makinde promising swift action to rescue the victims and bring those responsible to justice.
More than two weeks after the attack, many of the abductees remain in captivity, increasing anxiety among residents.
The situation led to a peaceful protest in Ogbomoso, where teachers suspended classes and marched to the Teaching Service Commission office to demand urgent government intervention.
The protesters called on authorities to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen security around schools to ensure safer learning environments for pupils, students, and teachers.
