Makinde reveals location of abducted Oyo pupils
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has said that the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state are still being kept within the Old Oyo National Park nearly four weeks after they were taken.
He gave the update while speaking on ongoing rescue operations, noting that security agencies are still working to secure the release of the victims who were kidnapped during attacks on schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities on May 15, 2026.
Makinde explained that intelligence reports show the abducted victims are still within the vast forest reserve of Old Oyo National Park, which stretches across about 2,500 square kilometres and covers several local government areas in Oyo State, including parts of Oriire Local Government Area.
He said the difficult terrain and size of the forest have made rescue efforts more complicated for security operatives, requiring careful coordination and sustained operations to track and reach the kidnappers’ location.
The governor assured residents that security agencies are following all credible intelligence and using lawful methods to ensure the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.
He also urged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious movement through the state emergency line 615.
Makinde further warned against the spread of false information about the incident, saying it could interfere with ongoing rescue work.
He appealed for continued cooperation with security agencies and asked residents to keep the victims in their thoughts as efforts to bring them back safely continue.
