The Federal Government has announced fresh security measures in response to the shocking abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, with President Bola Tinubu approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security across vulnerable communities.
The decision comes more than two weeks after armed kidnappers stormed schools in Oriire Local Government Area and whisked away dozens of pupils and teachers, leaving families in anguish and communities gripped by fear.
The announcement was made during a visit by a federal government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities, where residents have continued demanding urgent action to secure the release of the victims.
Leading the delegation was the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who delivered a message from President Tinubu to community leaders, parents and local stakeholders.
According to him, the President remains deeply concerned about the fate of the abducted children and teachers and has directed security agencies to intensify rescue efforts.
“Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” Gbajabiamila said.
He assured residents that security operations would be carefully coordinated to avoid putting the lives of the victims at further risk.
The Chief of Staff also revealed that requests for the establishment of a military base in the affected area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
For many residents, the military base request has become a major issue following repeated security concerns in parts of Oyo State where communities are surrounded by forests and difficult terrain often exploited by criminal groups.
Beyond the planned recruitment of forest guards, the Presidency disclosed that a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities has been deployed to support ongoing efforts aimed at locating and freeing the abducted victims.
Authorities say both intelligence gathering and strategic operations are being utilised to improve the chances of a successful rescue mission.
The May 15 abduction involving pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School triggered widespread outrage across the country and renewed calls for stronger protection of schools.
Parents have repeatedly appealed for caution, urging security agencies to prioritise the safe return of the children rather than aggressive operations that could endanger their lives.
The Federal Government says those concerns have been taken into account as rescue efforts continue.
For now, families remain hopeful that the promises made by the Presidency will translate into action and, most importantly, bring the abducted children and teachers home safely.