BY BLAMS ATEH, ABUJA
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday approved the recruitment of no fewer than 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and expressed the possibility of setting up a military base in Oyo State, 16 days after terrorists stormed a school in the state and kidnapped 47 students and teachers.
Addressing residents of Ogbomosho in both English and Yoruba, the leader of the delegation and Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, said the delegation’s visit is borne out of the president’s determination to secure the release of the victims.
As part of immediate measures to strengthen security in the area, the leader of the delegation added, President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government. The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request to establish a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval.
According to a press statement signed by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President has directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
According to Gbajabiamila, “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.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.
“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts. Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims”.
Some members of the delegation included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Minister of Defense, General Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
The delegation on Sunday visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, following the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The delegation was also at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people. The delegation also met with the wife of the deceased school Teacher, Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, and her two children. Femi Gbajabiamila delivered the President’s condolences, promising that the family would not suffer.
