President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State as part of urgent measures to tighten security and curb criminal activities in vulnerable communities following the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in the state.
The move was announced on Sunday during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, where gunmen abducted pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, assured anxious residents that the Federal Government was taking decisive action to secure the victims’ release and prevent future attacks.
He also disclosed that requests for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.
Addressing distraught parents and community members, Gbajabiamila said the President was deeply concerned about the plight of the abducted children and teachers and had ordered a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to bring them home safely.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.
He added that security operations would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms,” Gbajabiamila assured the grieving families.
