President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring affected families that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to secure their safe release.

In a statement issued on Monday through his official X handle, the President described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, stressing that no child should be taken from the safety of a classroom.

“I share the pain and anxiety of the affected families. No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu stated.

The President disclosed that he has directed the deployment of a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to reinforce ongoing operations aimed at rescuing the abducted victims.

Tinubu also announced the approval for the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as part of measures to strengthen security in vulnerable communities.

According to him, the decision followed the visit of a high-level Federal Government delegation to the affected communities of Esiele and Yawota.

“I have also directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers. The communities’ request for the establishment of a military base in the area is receiving urgent consideration,” the President added.

The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15 from schools in Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area, sparking widespread outrage and concern across the state.

The incident also prompted the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) to direct public school teachers in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite strike in protest and to demand enhanced security measures for schools.

Security agencies have continued rescue efforts as residents and stakeholders await the safe return of the victims.