President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as part of efforts to strengthen security and tackle criminal activities in vulnerable communities across the state.
The President announced the decision following the visit of a high-level Federal Government delegation to the Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where pupils and teachers were recently abducted by suspected criminals.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Tinubu said he had also directed the immediate deployment of a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify ongoing operations aimed at securing the safe release of the kidnapped victims.
Rescue Efforts Intensified
According to the President, security agencies have been instructed to sustain intelligence-driven operations and deploy all lawful resources necessary to bring the abducted pupils and teachers home safely.
He stressed that the government would pursue a coordinated and strategic rescue mission, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to achieve results without compromising the safety of those held captive.
“Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” the President stated.
Military Base Request Under Review
Tinubu also revealed that the request by residents for the establishment of a military base in the affected area is receiving urgent consideration from the Federal Government.
The move is expected to strengthen security presence in the region and help prevent future attacks on schools and communities.
The President acknowledged the pain being experienced by families of the abducted victims, describing the incident as a tragedy that should never occur.
“I share the pain and anxiety of the affected families. No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” he said.
Condolences to Bereaved Family
The President extended his condolences to the family of the late school teacher who lost his life during the attack.
He specifically sympathised with Mrs Mary Oyedokun and other family members, assuring them that the sacrifice of the deceased would not be forgotten.
“I extend my deepest condolences to Mrs Mary Oyedokun, the wife of the late school teacher, and her family. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his family will not be abandoned,” Tinubu added.
