Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered the immediate deployment of special forces to Oyo State following a wave of abductions targeting schoolchildren and teachers, heightening fears over safety in the region.
Military authorities said the operation is aimed at securing the swift rescue of victims and dismantling criminal networks behind the attacks. The deployment, according to security sources, is intelligence-driven and involves coordinated efforts between the armed forces, other security agencies, and local authorities.
Sources familiar with the operation confirmed that troops have already begun strategic positioning in affected areas, with surveillance and reconnaissance missions ongoing to track down suspected kidnappers. The move is part of broader efforts to curb rising insecurity and prevent further attacks on vulnerable institutions such as schools.
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Musa reassured Nigerians of the military’s commitment to protecting lives and restoring normalcy, stressing that the armed forces would not relent until those responsible are brought to justice. He also urged residents to cooperate with security operatives by providing credible information that could aid ongoing operations.
The latest intervention comes amid growing anxiety among residents of Oyo communities, who have called for sustained military presence and improved security infrastructure. Many parents and school authorities have expressed concern over the safety of students, with some institutions reportedly considering temporary closures.
The deployment also reflects renewed national attention on school safety, as authorities intensify measures to protect educational institutions from criminal activities. Analysts say the success of the operation will depend on sustained intelligence gathering and collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
For now, residents remain hopeful that the intervention will bring relief and restore confidence in the state’s security architecture.

