The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to secure the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State after President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and ordered intensified rescue operations.
The development comes more than two weeks after gunmen attacked schools in Oriire Local Government Area and abducted dozens of learners and educators, triggering nationwide concern.
Tinubu Orders Fresh Security Measures
A presidential delegation led by the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, visited affected communities and conveyed the President’s directives to local leaders.
The delegation included top security officials such as Nuhu Ribadu and Christopher Musa.
According to government officials, the recruitment of forest guards will be carried out in partnership with the Oyo State Government to strengthen security across vulnerable forest corridors.
Rescue Mission Intensifies
Authorities said intelligence-led operations are ongoing to ensure the safe return of all captives.
Speaking during the visit, Gbajabiamila assured residents that every available resource would be deployed to secure the release of the victims.
The Federal Government also confirmed that requests for additional military presence in the area have been forwarded for consideration.
NUT Declares Indefinite Strike
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Teachers has directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite strike.
The union said the decision followed the prolonged captivity of pupils and teachers abducted during the attack.
Teachers were instructed to withdraw their services until all victims regain their freedom.
Nationwide Solidarity Rallies Planned
The teachers’ union also announced plans for nationwide solidarity rallies aimed at drawing attention to growing security concerns in schools across Nigeria.
Union leaders said the demonstrations would call for stronger protection of students, teachers and educational institutions.
Oyo Communities Demand Lasting Security Solutions
Traditional rulers and community leaders have renewed calls for improved security infrastructure, including military formations and better communication networks in vulnerable communities.
They argued that criminal groups continue to exploit forest areas as safe havens for kidnapping operations.
SERAP Seeks International Attention
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has urged the United Nations to pay closer attention to Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
The organisation expressed concern over recurring abductions, killings and attacks on schools in several parts of the country.
Baptist Convention Raises Alarm
The Nigerian Baptist Convention described the abduction as heartbreaking, particularly because young children and teachers remain in captivity.
Church leaders called for stronger security measures and urged governments at all levels to adopt sustainable solutions to address insecurity.
