Tinubu approves 1,000 forest guards, deploys rescue team after Oyo school abductions

‎Ogbomoso, Oyo State — President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered the deployment of a specialised rescue team following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
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‎The directive was announced on Sunday, May 31, during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to the affected Esiele and Yawota communities, where armed men attacked schools on May 15 and kidnapped dozens of pupils and teachers.
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‎The delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, and Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa.
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‎They conveyed the President’s assurances that every available resource would be deployed to secure the safe release of the victims.
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‎According to government officials, the newly-approved forest guards will be recruited in partnership with the Oyo State government to strengthen security across vulnerable forest corridors and rural communities.
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‎The president also directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify ongoing operations aimed at freeing the abducted pupils and teachers.
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‎The abductions occurred when gunmen simultaneously attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Ahoro Esinele and Yawota communities, taking scores of pupils and teachers into captivity.
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‎The incident has sparked nationwide concern and renewed calls for stronger security measures around schools.
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‎During the visit, federal officials also pledged to consider requests from community leaders for the establishment of a military base in the area as part of efforts to prevent future attacks.
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‎The government said rescue efforts remain ongoing, while residents and families of the victims continue to appeal for their safe and immediate return.
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