Democracy Day: Makinde Assures Oyo Residents of Ongoing Efforts to Rescue Abducted Pupils, Teachers
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reassured residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The governor gave the assurance in his Democracy Day message to the people of Oyo State, stressing that the government remains committed to ensuring the safe return of all those kidnapped during the incident.
According to Makinde, intelligence and security reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast territory that stretches across parts of ten local government areas in the state.
He noted that security agencies are actively monitoring the situation and pursuing coordinated operations aimed at rescuing the victims without compromising their safety.
The governor urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security efforts by reporting suspicious movements and activities through the state’s toll-free emergency line, 615.
Makinde also cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified information, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue operations and create unnecessary panic among residents.
While acknowledging the concerns of families and communities affected by the abduction, the governor assured citizens that the state government is working closely with security agencies to achieve a positive outcome.
He further appealed to residents to continue offering support to law enforcement personnel and to pray for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The abduction has heightened concerns over security in parts of Oyo State, particularly around communities bordering forest reserves and the expansive Old Oyo National Park, which security experts have identified as a challenging terrain for criminal activities due to its vast coverage.
Despite the security challenges, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, noting that investments in intelligence gathering, community policing, and collaboration with federal security agencies remain central to the state’s security strategy.
As Oyo State joined the rest of the country in commemorating Democracy Day, Makinde emphasized that the protection of citizens remains a top priority of his administration and pledged continued efforts to strengthen security across all parts of the state.
Residents and stakeholders have expressed hope that ongoing security operations will lead to the successful rescue of the victims and further enhance safety in vulnerable communities across Oyo State.
