President Tinubu Wades into Oyo School Kidnaping Incident, Orders IGP Disu to Personally Lead Operation
President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted from Esiele community in Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric and assuring Nigerians that security forces are intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining victims.
The incident occurred last Friday when armed bandits invaded Esinele community in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting staff, students, and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
Security agencies are currently conducting coordinated operations to secure the release of the victims and apprehend those responsible, including their local collaborators.
President Tinubu expressed deep sympathy to the government and people of Oyo State, as well as to the families of the abducted victims. He assured that the Federal Government is working closely with the state government to ensure their safe return.
“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by gunmen who invaded the community. I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps taken so far. My thoughts are with the families of all the kidnapped victims,” the President said.
“The Federal Government is working with the Oyo State Government to ensure the rescue of all victims. I also commend the Inspector-General of Police and Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara States for their swift response, including the deployment of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) and other tactical units.”
President Tinubu further disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police is personally overseeing a technology-driven operation aimed at securing the release of the abducted victims. He directed senior operational coordination to be led by Tunji Disu, in collaboration with other security formations.
The President expressed confidence that the ongoing operation would yield a breakthrough soon and warned that all perpetrators and their collaborators would be brought to justice.
He also reiterated his call for the establishment of state police, noting that recurring cases of kidnapping highlight the need for a more decentralized security structure. He urged the National Assembly to expedite consideration of the proposed legislation.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
May 18, 2026