Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has said the state government is open to engaging with the abductors of pupils, students, and teachers kidnapped during a recent attack in Oriire Local Government Area, as part of efforts to secure their safe return.
The governor made this known while addressing journalists in Ibadan following the incident at Ahoro Esinele Community, where students and teachers were taken from two schools. He confirmed that seven students were abducted from a secondary school, while 18 pupils and seven teachers were taken from a primary school, adding that one victim was killed during the attack.
Makinde described the situation as evolving and challenging, noting that security agencies are actively conducting rescue operations in the affected area. He stressed the importance of accurate reporting and urged against sensational coverage, given the sensitivity of the situation.
He also revealed that a coordinated emergency response centre has been established at the state police headquarters to manage updates and streamline rescue efforts under the supervision of the Commissioner of Police.
On security upgrades, the governor disclosed that surveillance aircraft acquired by the state had arrived in Nigeria and were currently being assembled, with plans to deploy them by the end of June to strengthen monitoring of border communities.
Makinde reiterated that while the government is willing to explore all possible options to ensure the safe release of the victims, it will not concede to terrorism or compromise on the state’s security responsibilities.
