President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the killing of a teacher during the recent school abduction incident in Oyo State and assured Nigerians that efforts to rescue kidnapped pupils and teachers remain a top priority.
The President’s reaction follows growing concern over the attack on communities in Oriire Local Government Area, where gunmen abducted students and teachers, sparking nationwide outrage.
‘No Child Should Be Taken From a Classroom’
In a statement released on Monday, Tinubu said the attack had left families across the country heartbroken.
He stressed that schools should remain safe places for learning and development, adding that no parent should have to endure the trauma of losing a child to criminal violence.
The President also sympathised with affected families who continue to wait anxiously for news about their loved ones.
Tinubu Pays Tribute to Slain Teacher
Tinubu extended special condolences to the family of Mrs Mary Oyedokun, widow of the late Michael Oyedokun, the teacher reportedly killed during the attack.
The President described the tragedy as a painful loss and assured the family that the victim’s sacrifice would not be forgotten.
He further pledged that government support would be available to those affected by the incident.
Rescue Operations Intensified
According to the President, security agencies have been directed to continue coordinated rescue operations aimed at securing the safe return of all abducted pupils and teachers.
Tinubu stated that intelligence-driven strategies are being deployed alongside other lawful security measures to improve the chances of a successful rescue mission.
He assured Nigerians that authorities would remain relentless until the victims are safely reunited with their families.
Federal Government Steps Up Security Response
The President disclosed that senior government and security officials have already visited the affected communities as part of the Federal Government’s response.
Among those involved are key security and government leaders tasked with assessing the situation and strengthening ongoing rescue efforts.
The move underscores the growing urgency attached to the operation.
New Security Measures Announced
Tinubu also reaffirmed plans to deploy a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to the area.
In addition, the Federal Government is working with the Oyo State Government to mobilise 1,000 forest guards to strengthen surveillance and security operations around vulnerable forest corridors often exploited by criminal groups.
The President further revealed that a proposal for a military base in the affected region is receiving urgent consideration.
Concerns Over School Security Grow
The abduction in Esiele and Yawota communities has once again highlighted concerns about school safety and rural insecurity in Nigeria.
Security experts and community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger protection of educational institutions, particularly in remote areas vulnerable to attacks.
As rescue efforts continue, many Nigerians are hoping for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers while demanding lasting solutions to the country’s security challenges.