Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that seven teachers were abducted during an attack on schools in the Oriire area of Oyo State, while the number of missing pupils is still being determined.
The governor gave the update while addressing the worsening security situation following the invasion of the schools by suspected gunmen.
According to Makinde, an Islamic Studies teacher was killed during the attack. He also revealed that security operatives had arrested six suspects within the affected community, alongside three other persons of interest as investigations continue.
Makinde said intelligence reports suggested the attackers were among armed groups fleeing intensified military operations against terrorists and bandits in Nigeria’s North-West region.
“With the pressure on the terrorists and bandits in the North-West, they will continue moving southward,” the governor said.
He warned that states must remain vigilant to prevent displaced criminal groups from exploiting vulnerable communities.
“When pressure is mounted in one area, we must be ready on our side to repel or neutralise terrorists escaping from those pressure points,” he added.
The governor further disclosed that some of the arrested suspects were believed to be local informants aiding the attackers.
“The information available is that about six individuals have been arrested within the locality. Some of them we believe are informants. Also, three individuals of interest have been arrested,” he stated.
Makinde said the state government would combine security operations with dialogue and community engagement in tackling the crisis. He noted that consultations were ongoing with religious and community leaders, including officials of the Baptist Convention, since one of the affected schools belongs to the church organisation.
“We have decided not to rely solely on a kinetic approach. We are engaging leaders, elders and religious leaders, especially at the Baptist Convention,” he said.
The governor appealed to residents to remain calm and assured families of the abducted victims that the government was working to secure their safe return.
“We are not taking this lightly. We will do everything within our means to resolve this quickly and bring our children back safely,” Makinde assured.
Describing the situation as “very difficult and challenging,” the governor announced that the state government would begin daily press briefings to provide updates on rescue efforts and security developments.
