GOVERNOR Seyi Makinde has revealed that the students and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State are still being held within the vast Old Oyo National Park, nearly four weeks after they were kidnapped.
News Point Nigeria reports that the governor disclosed this on Friday in his Newsletter No. 140, providing a fresh update on efforts to secure the release of the victims and reunite them with their families.
According to Makinde, intelligence reports indicate that the abductees remain within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, where security agencies have continued to focus their operations.
The governor explained that the victims remain the central focus of ongoing rescue efforts being coordinated by the state government and security agencies.
“It has now been 27 days since these children and their teachers were forcibly taken from their schools, leaving their families and communities in distress and uncertainty,” he said.
News Point Nigeria reports that scores of teachers and students were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
Makinde acknowledged the pain, anxiety and uncertainty being experienced by the affected families, noting that while he had repeatedly assured residents that the victims would be rescued and reunited with their loved ones, he understood that such assurances might provide little comfort as the days continue to pass.
The governor, however, maintained that the state government and security agencies have not relented in their efforts to secure the release of the abductees.
“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” he stated.
Providing further insight into the challenges confronting security operatives, Makinde explained that the Old Oyo National Park covers an estimated 2,500 square kilometres spanning parts of ten local government areas in the state.
“Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.
“The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation,” the governor said.
Despite the challenges, he assured residents that rescue efforts remain active and that security agencies are working relentlessly to bring the victims home safely.
Makinde also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements or activities through the state government’s toll-free Citizens Enquiry Number, 615.
He assured the public that all credible reports would receive prompt attention and could assist ongoing operations.
The governor further warned against the spread of unverified information regarding the abduction, stressing that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts and jeopardise security operations.
“Misinformation can compromise ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations,” he cautioned.
Makinde appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful and timely information while also keeping the abducted students and teachers in their prayers as efforts intensify to secure their safe return.