President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the deployment of 1,000 forest guards and a specialised tactical rescue team following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State.
The directive comes in response to the attack on multiple schools in Oriire Local Government Area, where armed gunmen stormed classrooms and forcefully took away dozens of victims into nearby forests. The incident has sparked widespread concern across the country, with calls for urgent government action.
According to official sources, the newly deployed forest guards will work alongside the military, police, and local intelligence networks to comb forest areas believed to be hideouts of the kidnappers. The tactical rescue team, equipped with advanced surveillance and combat capabilities, has also been mandated to coordinate a safe and strategic operation to secure the release of the victims.
A high-level Federal Government delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, visited the affected communities to assess the situation and reassure residents of the government’s commitment. Authorities say intelligence-driven operations are ongoing, with a focus on ensuring the safety of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The attack, which targeted at least three schools, reportedly left some casualties, including a teacher, and has disrupted academic activities in the area. In response, the Nigeria Union of Teachers has directed a withdrawal of services in public schools across the state until the victims are rescued.
Residents and stakeholders have continued to urge the Federal Government to strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities, with renewed calls for the establishment of a military base in the region to prevent further attacks.
Security agencies have assured that all necessary measures are being taken, expressing confidence that the victims will be rescued and the perpetrators brought to justice.