President Tinubu Approves 1,000 Forest Guards, Deploys Special Rescue Team for Abducted Schoolchildren in Oyo
President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to enhance efforts to rescue abducted pupils and teachers of Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oyo State on May 15.
The approval, in partnership with the state government, also includes the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities, directed to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims.
The development comes after a Federal Government delegation visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the delegation conveyed President Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident and his commitment to securing the safe return of the victims.
The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration.
While addressing residents, Gbajabiamila explained the President’s decision to dispatch the nation’s top security leadership to the affected communities reflected his determination to deploy every available resource towards securing the victims’ release.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective. Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.
“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts. Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he said.
The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people. They also met with the wife of the deceased school teacher, Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, and her two children.
The Chief of Staff delivered the President’s condolences, with a promise that the family will not suffer.
