President Bola Tinubu has condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted during an attack on schools in Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric.
Gunmen had reportedly invaded the community last Friday and abducted staff, students, and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President assured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
President Tinubu expressed sympathy to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the state government, and families affected by the incident.
“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by the gunmen who invaded the community. I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps he has taken on the matter. I also sympathise with the families of the kidnapped victims,” the President stated.
He disclosed that the Federal Government was collaborating closely with the Oyo State Government to secure the release of all abducted persons.
The President also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara states for their swift response, including the deployment of tactical and Intelligence Response Team (IRT) operatives to the area.
According to the statement, the Inspector-General of Police is personally overseeing the technology-driven rescue operation on the directive of the President.
“We expect a breakthrough soon. The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” Tinubu said.
The President further stressed the need for the establishment of state police, noting that rising cases of kidnapping underscore the urgency of strengthening local security structures.
He urged the National Assembly to expedite legislative action on the creation of state police to improve security coverage in underserved areas across the country.
