The Oyo State Government has disclosed that suspected kidnappers involved in the attack on LA School, Ahoro-Esinele, and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele, Oriire LGUBEA, have been effectively confined within the National Park axis following coordinated security operations aimed at preventing their movement into neighbouring states.
The attack, which resulted in the killing of a teacher and the kidnapping of some pupils, also led to the abduction of the principal, two vice principals, and three teachers.
In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, security operatives have successfully surrounded the area, restricting the suspects’ movement and preventing possible escape into Kwara State or other neighbouring locations.
According to the commissioner, one motorcycle rider and one teacher were shot during the incident, while the injured teacher later died.
Prince Oyelade explained that immediately after the attack, around 11 a.m. yesterday, security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence Agro Rangers, and the Nigeria Police Force, with officers from the Monitoring Unit, were mobilised to commence rescue operations.
The Commissioner of Police subsequently directed the Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS) to join the operation.
He also revealed that the Commissioner of Police coordinated with his counterpart in Kwara State, with both commands agreeing to strengthen surveillance and ensure any suspect attempting to cross state boundaries would be apprehended.
Prince Oyelade noted that patrol operations commenced this morning after intelligence indicated the suspects remained within the National Park in Oyo State. 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.
While noting that there has been no direct contact with the abductors so far, the statement said authorities are currently focused on establishing the exact number of pupils affected, as school authorities have yet to provide accurate records of missing children.
“This has made the rescue operation more difficult. What we are trying to do now is locate their position and apply pressure,” He said.
The commissioner assured residents that security personnel remain actively engaged in the ongoing operation and expressed confidence that the sustained pressure on the suspects would support efforts to secure the safe release of those abducted.
He added that security operatives have effectively surrounded the area, with indications suggesting the suspects remain within the National Park corridor and are unable to move into Kwara State or other neighbouring areas.
He emphasised that the swift response to the incident reflects the Oyo State Government’s sustained investment in security infrastructure and proactive measures aimed at protecting lives and property across the state.
As part of these efforts, Amotekun in Oyo State remains the most fortified and funded security outfit in the South-West, with the corps currently operating 181 vehicles, 450 motorcycles, and over 2,500 personnel to strengthen surveillance, rapid response, and community-based security operations across the state.
He reiterated that these investments underscore the state’s commitment to maintaining a robust security architecture capable of responding swiftly to emerging threats and safeguarding residents.
He also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to securing the release of all abducted victims and restoring normalcy to affected communities.
