Oriire abduction: Oyo govt assures families, gives update on rescue efforts

The Oyo State Government on Monday reassured residents that intensive efforts are ongoing to secure the safe release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, saying security agencies are actively working to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

The government gave the assurance in a statement posted on its official X handle, amid growing anxiety among residents and renewed calls for the swift rescue of the victims.

Expressing sympathy with the families affected by the abduction, the government acknowledged the emotional trauma and uncertainty they have endured since the incident, while reiterating its commitment to ensuring the victims are reunited with their loved ones.

“The Oyo State Government remains committed to the safe return of our children and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area. Our thoughts are with their families in these trying times,” the statement read.

The government stressed that it was maintaining close collaboration with security agencies spearheading the rescue operation, assuring the public that every available effort was being deployed to secure the victims’ freedom.

“We will continue to collaborate with the security agencies who are actively working to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice,” it stated.

While urging residents to remain calm, the government reaffirmed its determination to prioritise the safety and security of citizens, adding that it would continue to support ongoing security operations until the victims regain their freedom.

The latest update comes amid heightened public concern over the prolonged captivity of the abducted pupils and teachers, with residents, community leaders and other stakeholders calling on the authorities to intensify rescue efforts and ensure the victims are released unconditionally.

It would be recalled that the students and teachers were kidnapped on 15 May 2026, making it 54 days since their captivity, and this has continued to generate widespread concern across the state, with many Nigerians expressing hope for the safe return of the victims and urging security agencies to sustain efforts aimed at ending the ordeal.