Oyo State Governor, Engr.Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed that the safe return of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area remains the top priority of the Oyo State Government, assuring residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue the victims.
In a statement issued on Friday, Makinde said security operatives had continued coordinated and sustained operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers. He noted that the state government was providing all necessary support to the agencies involved in the rescue mission.
To strengthen ongoing operations, the governor disclosed that the government had approved a temporary 16-hour curfew across 10 Local Government Areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park. According to him, the measure is designed to enhance security surveillance and create a conducive environment for rescue efforts to continue effectively.
Makinde appealed to residents in the affected communities to cooperate fully with security personnel, stressing that public support remains critical to the success of the operation.
Despite the security challenges, the governor maintained that preparations were underway to ensure the safe resumption of schools across the state. He said the administration was carefully balancing educational needs with the safety of pupils, teachers and surrounding communities.
“Education remains too important to be placed indefinitely on hold,” he stated, adding that adequate precautions would be implemented to safeguard schools and learning environments.
Makinde also provided an update on the state’s surveillance aircraft project, revealing that delivery had entered its final phase. He explained that additional technical and regulatory procedures had extended the expected June delivery timeline but assured residents that the delay was necessary to meet all operational and safety requirements.
The governor said the aircraft would significantly boost Oyo State’s aerial surveillance capabilities, emergency response efforts and broader security operations once deployed.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening public safety, education, infrastructure and strategic investments, while pledging to keep residents informed as both the rescue operation and aircraft delivery process progress.
Makinde thanked the people of Oyo State for their cooperation and resilience, assuring them that the government remains focused on building a safer and more prosperous state.