Defence Chief deploys special forces and drone to Oyo over abductions

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered the deployment of special forces and aerial surveillance units to Oyo State following a series of recent kidnapping incidents.

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According to the Defence Headquarters, the move is aimed at strengthening security operations in affected areas and ensuring the arrest of those responsible for the attacks.

Military spokesperson Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja said the Armed Forces acknowledged the security situation in Oyo State and expressed condolences to affected families and residents. He added that the CDS had directed an expanded security response involving aerial monitoring and specialised ground troops working alongside state authorities.

He said intelligence-led operations had already begun yielding results and assured that troops would continue sustained pressure until the perpetrators were apprehended and security restored.

The Defence Headquarters also released nationwide operational figures for May 2026, reporting arrests of suspects, the rescue of kidnapped civilians, the surrender of some militants, and the recovery of weapons and petroleum products during various operations across the country.

Authorities said overall operations showed mixed outcomes but highlighted increased arrests and civilian rescues. The military reiterated its commitment to tackling insecurity in Oyo State, following recent abductions, including the kidnapping of students and teachers in Oriire and staff of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria in Ibadan.