following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
The President also directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts toward securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the directive was delivered during a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Esiele and Yawota communities.
The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other top officials.
Gbajabiamila assured residents that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, using both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to bring the victims home safely.
The abduction reportedly occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools in the area, taking pupils and teachers captive.
The deployment of forest guards is expected to strengthen security around vulnerable forest-border communities and support ongoing rescue efforts.
Daily Times
