Makinde Reveals NAF Aircraft Tracking Kidnappers of Oyo Pupils and Teachers

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, deploying aerial surveillance assets to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations.

Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed the development during a courtesy visit by the representative of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.

According to a statement issued by NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force swiftly mobilised a surveillance aircraft immediately after reports of the abduction emerged, providing critical intelligence support to security agencies involved in the rescue mission.

Makinde explained that intelligence gathered from the aerial operations has continued to assist security operatives in monitoring movements within the affected areas and coordinating efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the victims.

The Governor appealed to residents to remain calm and patient, assuring them that government and security agencies are deploying every available resource to ensure the successful rescue of the abducted teachers and schoolchildren.

He praised the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt intervention, noting that the support came at a crucial time while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial security platforms are still undergoing final assembly at the NAF Base in Lagos.

Makinde revealed that the state procured the aircraft following consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to guarantee access to maintenance facilities, technical expertise, engineering support and pilot training.

According to him, the assets will significantly strengthen security operations across Oyo State and neighbouring states once fully operational.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at securing the victims' release.

He assured the state government that NAF remains fully committed to collaborating with other security agencies to combat criminal activities and enhance public safety across the country.

The victims were abducted on May 15 during a deadly attack on communities in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area.

Among those kidnapped were pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School.

The incident sparked outrage nationwide, leading to protests by teachers' unions and civil society groups who demanded urgent action from authorities.

The tragedy deepened after reports emerged that one of the abducted teachers was killed while in captivity.

Last week, the House of Representatives called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure the victims are returned safely.

President Bola Tinubu subsequently approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and ordered the deployment of a special rescue team to support ongoing operations in the state.

Security agencies say efforts to locate and rescue the remaining captives are continuing.