Makinde Reveals Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren And Teachers Are Being Held Inside Old Oyo National Park

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that the schoolchildren and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area are being held within the vast Old Oyo National Park.

The governor made the revelation on Friday while providing an update on efforts to secure the release of the victims, nearly four weeks after they were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on schools in the state.

The abductees were taken away on May 15, 2026, when armed men stormed schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities, sparking nationwide outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in the South-West.

According to Makinde, intelligence reports available to security agencies indicate that the victims remain somewhere within the Old Oyo National Park axis, a development he said highlights the complexity of the ongoing rescue operation.

“One thing I can say is that our security reports indicate that they remain within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis,” the governor said.

He explained that the national park covers an estimated 2,500 square kilometres and stretches across parts of 10 local government areas in Oyo State, making security operations in the area particularly challenging.

“I mention this not to discourage anyone, but to help us understand the scale of the challenge before us. This is not an issue affecting only the Oriire Local Government Area.

“It is an issue that concerns all of us. The size and terrain of the area require patience, coordination and persistence,” he added.

Makinde noted that the difficult terrain and expansive nature of the forest environment have compelled security agencies to adopt carefully coordinated strategies aimed at ensuring the victims are rescued safely.

Despite the challenges, the governor assured residents that security operatives remain fully committed to the mission and are pursuing every credible lead.

He stressed that all lawful measures are being deployed to secure the freedom of the abducted students and teachers without exposing them to additional danger.

Makinde also urged residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing operations by reporting suspicious activities through the state’s toll-free emergency number, 615.

The governor warned against the circulation of unverified reports and misinformation, noting that false narratives could undermine rescue efforts and complicate security operations.

He appealed to members of the public to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing useful information and keeping the victims in their prayers.

The abduction of the schoolchildren and teachers has remained one of Nigeria’s most troubling security incidents in recent weeks, with families of the victims anxiously awaiting positive news as rescue efforts intensify.