Presidency Dispatches High-Powered Team Over Abduction of 46 Pupils, Teachers in Oyo

The Federal Government has dispatched a high-powered presidential delegation to Oyo State following the abduction of 46 pupils and teachers from schools in Esiele and Yawota villages in Orire and Ogbomosho Local Government Areas.

The delegation, led by Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, is expected to assess the security situation, engage local stakeholders and coordinate efforts aimed at securing the safe release of the victims.

Also on the delegation are the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa; Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu; and the Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

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The presidential team was directed to visit the affected communities in response to growing concerns over the mass abduction, which has heightened fears among residents and renewed calls for stronger security measures across vulnerable rural areas.

Sources familiar with the mission said the visit underscores the Federal Government’s determination to address the incident swiftly and reassure affected families that every available resource is being deployed to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The abduction has triggered widespread concern in Oyo State, with parents, community leaders and education stakeholders demanding urgent action from security agencies. The incident is one of the most significant school-related kidnappings reported in the state in recent years.

Officials are expected to meet with community leaders, security commanders and local government authorities during the visit. The delegation is also expected to receive firsthand briefings on ongoing rescue operations and evaluate additional measures needed to strengthen security in the affected areas.

The presence of top security officials, including the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police and the Minister of Defence, highlights the seriousness with which the Federal Government is treating the incident.

While details surrounding the circumstances of the abduction remain unclear, security agencies have reportedly intensified surveillance and search operations across the affected region and neighbouring areas.

The visit comes amid renewed national concern over attacks on schools and the safety of students and teachers, particularly in rural communities where security challenges have persisted despite government efforts to curb criminal activities.

Residents of Esiele and Yawota villages expressed hope that the intervention of the presidential delegation would accelerate rescue efforts and lead to the safe return of the abducted victims.

Government officials have yet to provide a timeline for the release of the pupils and teachers, but authorities insist that security agencies are working around the clock to resolve the situation.

The Federal Government has repeatedly stated its commitment to protecting schools and ensuring that educational institutions remain safe environments for learning. The outcome of the delegation’s visit is expected to shape further actions aimed at addressing security concerns in the affected communities and preventing similar incidents in the future.