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Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has assured families of teachers and students abducted during the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area that efforts are intensifying to secure their safe return. The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday while addressing growing fears and public outrage following the kidnapping of dozens of pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on three schools in the state. 
Makinde stated that security agencies, local vigilantes, and intelligence operatives were working round the clock to rescue the victims, adding that the government remained committed to bringing the abductees back safely. He urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading panic, insisting that ongoing rescue operations were making progress. The governor also reassured affected families that the state government had not abandoned them despite criticism over delays in securing the release of the victims. 
The attack, which occurred nearly two weeks ago, targeted Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele community. Armed bandits reportedly stormed the schools simultaneously and abducted dozens of pupils and teachers, including children between the ages of two and 16. Authorities later confirmed that one of the abducted teachers was killed while in captivity, while several local suspects believed to have assisted the attackers were arrested during investigations. 
The incident has triggered widespread condemnation across Nigeria, with groups including the Nigerian Bar Association and political leaders demanding a complete overhaul of security architecture in Oyo State and across the country. In response to the attacks, the Oyo State Government recently suspended school excursions, sporting activities, and inter-school events as precautionary measures. Security concerns have also intensified following reports that rescue teams encountered improvised explosive devices during operations in forest areas linked to the kidnappers. 
