Security operatives seal escape routes after students’ abduction in Oyo

The Oyo State Government says security operatives have sealed escape routes for abductors of students in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, made this known in a statement issued on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

It would be recalled that gunmen abducted some pupils and students of LA Primary School and Community Grammar School at Ahoro-Esinele Community at Oriire LGA on Friday.

The attack, which resulted in the killing of a teacher, also led to the abduction of the principal, two vice principals, and three teachers.

“The suspected bandits have been effectively confined within the National Park axis, following coordinated security operations aimed at preventing their movement into neighbouring states,” the commissioner stated.

Oyelade said security operatives have surrounded the area, thereby restricting the suspects’ movement.

Oyelade explained that immediately after the attack, at about 11 a.m. on Friday, security agencies were mobilised to commence rescue operations.

The security agencies, he said, include the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence Agro Rangers, and the Nigeria Police Force.

Oyelade added: “Patrol operations also commenced this morning after intelligence indicated the suspects remained within the National Park in Oyo State.

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“Three separate patrol teams, comprising Amotekun operatives and hunters drawn from seven local government areas in Oke-Ogun, were deployed through Igbeti towards Oloka and adjoining communities.”

Oyelade said direct contact with the abductors had yet to be established.

He, however, said authorities were currently focused on establishing the exact number of pupils affected.

“The school authorities have yet to provide accurate records of missing children,” the commissioner said.

He assured the public of the active engagement of the Oyo State Government and security personnel in the ongoing operation.

The sustained pressure on the suspects, Oyelade said, would support efforts to secure the safe release of those abducted.