Ogbomoso, Oyo State — President Bola Tinubu has ordered a series of security measures following the abduction of around 46 pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The measures include the deployment of a special rescue unit, approval for the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards, and consideration of a permanent military base in the area.
Schools attacked
Armed men attacked three schools on 15 May in the communities of Esiele and Yawota near Ogbomoso.
The affected schools were Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele.
Officials say about 39 pupils and seven teachers were taken during the raid. One teacher was reportedly killed.
Public reaction
The incident has triggered protests in parts of Oyo State, including Ogbomoso and Ibadan. The state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers has also begun an indefinite strike in response to the attack.
Federal response
A high-level delegation from the federal government visited the affected communities on 31 May. The team was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Following the visit, President Tinubu approved additional security measures, including the deployment of a specialised rescue team to coordinate efforts to locate and free the abducted victims.
The government also approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in partnership with the Oyo State Government to strengthen security in rural and forested areas.
Officials say a proposed military base in the region is also under consideration.
Ongoing operation
Security agencies say operations are continuing to locate the abducted pupils and teachers. Authorities have described the attack as unacceptable and have pledged to bring those responsible to justice.
Officials have also urged the public to avoid actions that could interfere with rescue efforts.
Wider context
School abductions have remained a recurring security challenge in parts of Nigeria in recent years, particularly in rural areas close to forested regions used as hideouts by armed groups.
The Oyo attack is the latest to prompt renewed calls for increased security presence in the region.
Authorities say efforts to secure the release of the victims are ongoing.
