Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Sunday led a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Ogbomoso and surrounding communities in Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The delegation, which included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications Sunday Dare, conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s concern over the May 15 abduction and reassured residents of ongoing efforts to secure the victims’ release.
The visit followed the kidnapping of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele and Yawota communities, an incident that has heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State.
As part of measures to strengthen security in the area, the Federal Government approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State in collaboration with the state government.
The delegation also informed community leaders that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be presented to President Tinubu for consideration.
In addition, the President directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Addressing residents in English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President’s decision to send the nation’s top security officials underscored the administration’s commitment to bringing the victims home safely.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” he said.
Gbajabiamila assured parents and community members that rescue operations would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated to prioritise the safety of the victims.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms,” he added.
The delegation also paid a visit to the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with the traditional ruler and residents over the incident.
They later met with the family of a teacher killed during the attack, Mrs. Mary Oyedokun and her two children, where Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s condolences and assured the family of government support.
The abduction has drawn national attention and renewed calls for stronger security measures in vulnerable rural communities, particularly schools, ahead of the next academic session.
Deji Elumoye
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