Oyo Kidnap: Makinde Confirms Arrests, Teacher Killed as Rescue Efforts Intensify
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Monday confirmed the arrest of nine suspected informants linked to the abduction of over 40 persons at Ahoro Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
He said security forces are intensifying efforts to rescue the victims, with soldiers, police, Amotekun, local vigilantes, and other operatives actively involved in the operation.
Makinde also confirmed the killing of one of the abducted teachers by the kidnappers, describing the incident as tragic.
Speaking after a security briefing, the governor said:
“We just finished a review of the security situation in the local government area where the abduction of some teachers and schoolchildren took place.
First, let me appeal to the families that are involved that their government is working round the clock to ensure that we tackle this challenge…
What we know right now is that seven teachers in all were abducted. And, unfortunately, we got a video this morning that one of the teachers… was killed by the terrorists this morning. Of course, our prayers are with the family.”
He added that six suspects were arrested within the locality, believed to be supplying logistics and intelligence to the kidnappers, while three additional persons of interest were picked up by another security agency.
The governor also expressed concern over injuries sustained by members of the rescue team, including soldiers and local operatives, who encountered improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the operation. He confirmed that the injured personnel are responding to treatment and that the government will cover all medical expenses.
Makinde said the state is combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to tackle the crisis, urging residents to remain calm as security agencies work to secure the release of the abducted victims.
“We have decided that we will adopt not just the kinetic approach… I want to appeal to everybody… that we are doing everything within our power to ensure that we resolve this situation quickly and bring our children back safely,” he said.
He further explained that coordination with neighbouring states is ongoing, noting that increased military pressure in northern Nigeria may be pushing criminal groups southwards, requiring stronger regional security collaboration.
Makinde assured that the government remains committed to strengthening security across vulnerable areas, including schools, transport routes, and public spaces, while promising regular updates on rescue efforts.
