Oyo Abduction: Police Assure Swift Rescue of Over 40 Abducted Pupils, Teachers

The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West, Adegoke Fayoade, has assured Nigerians that over 40 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State will soon be rescued as security agencies intensify operations.

Fayoade gave the assurance on Monday during a working visit to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, amid growing concern over the safety of the victims abducted during a recent attack in Oriire Local Government Area.

He said all relevant security agencies and government authorities were working “round the clock” to ensure the victims regain their freedom in the shortest possible time.

“The update is that all agencies, including the government, are working very hard. And I can assure you within the shortest possible time, the children and their teachers will be free,” he said.

The DIG declined to comment on reports suggesting that the abductors had made ransom demands or sought the release of detained associates.

“We don’t know anything about ransom because we don’t talk about ransom. So, all efforts are directed towards getting the abductees free from the capture,” he said.

The abduction, which occurred during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, sparked nationwide outrage and renewed calls for stronger security measures in vulnerable rural communities.

Authorities say the victims were taken on May 15 after armed men invaded the area, killed a teacher and forced more than 40 pupils and teachers into a forest.

The incident has intensified pressure on security agencies and government officials, with the Oyo State Government insisting that efforts are ongoing to prevent a repeat of past mass school kidnappings.

Governor Seyi Makinde recently said security forces, including the military, were actively engaged in rescue operations, though the mission has faced challenges and casualties.

The police say broader reforms are also underway to strengthen security operations across the South-West, including recruitment of personnel, improved welfare for officers and increased use of technology.

Fayoade added that the Nigeria Police Force is developing a national data system to improve intelligence sharing among security agencies and enhance crime detection.

He said officers would also receive specialised training in the use of artificial intelligence for investigations and intelligence gathering as part of efforts to modernise policing.

Despite ongoing security challenges, the police maintain that intelligence-led operations are yielding results and that efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims remain a top priority.