Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed the death of one teacher following the abduction of students and staff in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring residents that the government is intensifying efforts to secure the safe return of the remaining victims.
The governor disclosed this during a press conference on Monday, where he addressed growing concerns over the security situation in the state. Makinde said the incident had thrown the affected communities into grief and anxiety, noting that the state government was working closely with security agencies and community stakeholders to manage the crisis and rescue the abducted students safely.
According to him, the state government’s thoughts and prayers remain with the affected families, traditional leaders, religious leaders and residents of the area, particularly members of the Baptist community who were directly affected by the tragic incident. He appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as rescue efforts continue.
“Our prayers are with the family leaders and elders, religious elders, especially the Baptists. Residents, in particular of Oriire Local Government and the rest of the state,” Makinde said during the briefing. “I want to appeal that we are doing everything within our power to ensure that this brings our children back safely.”
The governor described the situation as difficult and highly challenging, stressing that the government was carefully handling the operation to avoid putting the lives of the abducted victims at further risk. He noted that security operatives were already working around the clock and that the state would continue pushing its resources to the limit to achieve positive results.
“It is a very difficult and challenging situation,” he said. “So please, there may not be quick fixes, but we will continue to endeavor to push ourselves to the limits.” Makinde added that the government understood the fears and frustrations of residents but urged the public not to spread panic or misinformation capable of complicating rescue operations.
Makinde also announced that the Oyo State Government would commence daily press briefings to keep residents and the media updated on developments surrounding the abduction case. According to him, the regular updates are aimed at ensuring transparency and reassuring residents that the government remains fully committed to securing the release of the victims and restoring confidence in public safety across the state.