By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered the deployment of a specialised security unit to intensify efforts to rescue abducted pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The measures were announced during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities, where pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15 from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the delegation conveyed the President’s concern over the incident and his determination to ensure the safe return of the victims.
“As part of immediate measures to strengthen security in the area, President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government,” the statement said.
The delegation also assured community leaders that their request for a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
“The request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval,” it added.
To strengthen ongoing rescue efforts, the President directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities.
“President Tinubu has directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.”
The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, and the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents, Gbajabiamila said the President was deeply disturbed by the abduction and had directed the nation’s security leadership to spare no effort in securing the victims’ freedom.
“Mr President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.
“He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective.”
The Chief of Staff assured anxious parents and community members that rescue operations would be carefully coordinated to prioritise the safety of the victims.
“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 stated.
The delegation also paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso, and met with the family of a deceased school teacher affected by the incident.
Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s condolences to the widow, Mrs Mary Oyedokun, and her children, assuring them of the government’s support.
The Presidency said the visit underscores the administration’s commitment to protecting schoolchildren and restoring security in affected communities.
