The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, deploying aerial surveillance assets to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
The development was disclosed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, during a courtesy visit by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to a statement issued by NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Sunday, the governor revealed that the Air Force swiftly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to security agencies involved in the rescue mission.
Makinde said intelligence gathered through the surveillance flights has continued to aid efforts to track the abductors and coordinate operations aimed at securing the safe return of the victims.
He appealed to residents of the state to remain patient and continue supporting security agencies, assuring them that all available resources are being mobilised to resolve the situation.
The governor commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt response and sustained commitment to the rescue effort.
According to the statement, Makinde noted that the surveillance aircraft was deployed while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial security assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base in Lagos.
He explained that the state procured the platforms following consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to technical support, maintenance services, engineering expertise and pilot training.
The governor expressed optimism that the new aerial assets would significantly strengthen security operations across Oyo State and neighbouring states once they become fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State, pledging continued support toward securing the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
He also praised the state government for its support of Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
“The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to working closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property while supporting efforts to address security challenges across the country,” the statement said.
The victims, comprising pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School, were abducted on May 15 during a deadly attack by armed bandits on Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The incident turned tragic after one of the kidnapped teachers was reportedly killed while in captivity.
The abduction sparked widespread outrage, with teachers’ unions and civil society organisations staging protests in Ibadan and other parts of the country, demanding urgent government intervention to secure the release of the victims.
Following the abduction, the House of Representatives called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure the abducted teachers and pupils are rescued alive.
In response to the worsening security situation, President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and authorised the deployment of a special rescue team to support ongoing operations aimed at bringing the victims home safely.