Governor Seyi Makinde has said that pupils and teachers abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State are still believed to be within the broader Old Oyo National Park corridor, 27 days after they were taken.
The governor gave the update in his Newsletter No. 140, noting that security operations to rescue the victims are ongoing across the vast and difficult terrain.
Makinde said the prolonged absence of the victims has left families and communities in deep distress.
“It has been 27 days since our children and teachers were forcefully taken,” he said, adding that families have continued to live with “uncertainty.”
He admitted that repeated assurances from the government may have become difficult for residents to believe.
“I know that having heard these words so often… they may now sound hollow. Please trust that they are not,” Makinde stated.
According to him, security agencies are working daily on all credible intelligence, though operational details cannot be disclosed for security reasons.
“Every single day, we continue to pursue every credible lead,” he said.
Makinde revealed that intelligence reports indicate the abducted pupils and teachers are still within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a forested area covering about 2,500 square kilometres and stretching across roughly 10 local government areas.
He explained that the size and terrain of the area have made rescue efforts more complex, but insisted that operations remain active and coordinated.
“This is a vast area… it requires patience, coordination and persistence,” the governor said.
The governor urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements through the state’s emergency line, 615, which he said is toll-free and active 24/7.
He also warned against the spread of rumours, stressing that misinformation could undermine rescue efforts.
“Please rely on official channels for information,” he cautioned.
Makinde further appealed for continued patience, vigilance, and prayers for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, assuring that efforts to bring them home are ongoing.
