Abducted Ogbomoso Students, Teachers Still Within Nat’l Park — Makinde

By Rotela Oguns

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has stated that the students and teachers abducted from schools in Yawota, Alawusa and Ahoro-esiele all in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State have not left the territory of the state.

Makinde noted that the abductees are still languishing in the old Oyo National Park.

The Oyo helmsman made this claim in a statement issued on Friday, adding that it’s been 27 days since the students and teachers were abducted from their schools.

He stressed that the development has left the abductees’ families and communities in distress and uncertainty.

The governor said the state government and security agencies have not relented in their efforts to rescue the victims.

“Every credible lead is being pursued, and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” the statement reads.

“Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo state.

“The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation.”

Makinde also cautioned against the circulation of unverified information on the abduction, warning that “misinformation can compromise ongoing rescue efforts and hinder security operations”.