Tinubu Approves 1,000 Forest Guards For Oyo, Deploys Special Rescue Team After Ogbomoso School Abductions

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and directed the deployment of a specialized security unit to intensify efforts to rescue pupils and teachers abducted from schools in the Ogbomoso axis of the state.

The announcement was made on Sunday during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen abducted pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.

The delegation conveyed the President’s deep concern over the incident and reassured residents of the Federal Government’s commitment to securing the safe return of all the victims.

As part of immediate security measures, the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to strengthen surveillance and security across vulnerable areas.

The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration and approval.

Leading the delegation, Femi Gbajabiamila said the President’s decision to dispatch the nation’s top security officials to the affected communities underscored his determination to utilize every available resource to secure the victims’ release.

“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely. He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” Gbajabiamila said.

He further assured parents and residents that rescue efforts would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated, employing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to ensure the safe recovery of the abductees.

Other members of the delegation included Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, Christopher Musa, and presidential media aide Sunday Dare.

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The delegation also visited the palace of the Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye to commiserate with the traditional ruler and the people of Ogbomoso over the incident.

In addition, the team met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, wife of a deceased school teacher affected by the tragedy, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s condolences to the family and assured them that the Federal Government would provide support and ensure they do not suffer hardship as a result of their loss.

The visit forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to address insecurity in the area and secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.