Oyo Governor Appeals for Help as Abducted Pupils Remain Captive

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has made an appeal for support from the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Government as 27 pupils and teachers have spent one month in captivity following their abduction on May 15, 2026, during a coordinated attack on Baptist Nursery Primary School in Yawota, Esiel Oriir Local Government Area. Governor Makinde described the abduction as a traumatic incident and emphasized the need for sustained cooperation among security institutions at the government level.

He acknowledged the significant security challenges faced by the police and security agencies, noting the vast territory of Oyo State that complicates surveillance and operational efforts. Makinde commended the Inspector General of Police for establishing a violent crime unit and expressed his administration's commitment to providing additional support to enhance police operations.

Olatunji Fayoade, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Southwest, assured the governor of the Nigeria Police Force's dedication to securing the release of the abducted individuals.