Oyo School Attack: 7 Abducted, 1 Killed — Makinde Raises Alarm

Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that seven teachers were kidnapped and an Islamic Studies teacher was killed during a deadly Oyo school attack in the Oriire area of Oyo State.

Speaking to journalists on Sunday after meeting with security chiefs and service commanders, Makinde said the exact number of missing pupils was still being determined following the invasion by suspected gunmen.

The governor disclosed that security agencies had already arrested six suspects within the affected community, along with three other persons of interest linked to the Oyo school attack.

According to Makinde, preliminary intelligence reports suggest that some of those arrested may have served as informants for the attackers.

He warned that armed groups fleeing intensified military operations against terrorists and bandits in Nigeria’s North-West could continue moving southward in search of weaker security zones.

“With the pressure on terrorists and bandits in the North-West, they will keep moving southward,” Makinde stated, stressing the need for states to strengthen security measures to repel or neutralise fleeing criminals.

The governor revealed that consultations were ongoing with religious and community leaders, including officials of the Baptist Convention, as one of the affected schools belongs to the church.

Makinde explained that the state government would adopt both security operations and community engagement in tackling the crisis rather than relying solely on military force.

Describing the incident as “very difficult and challenging,” he assured families of the abducted victims that every effort was being made to secure their safe return.

“We are not taking this lightly. We will do everything within our means to resolve this quickly and bring our children back safely,” the governor said.

He also announced that the Oyo State Government would begin daily press briefings to keep residents informed about rescue efforts and ongoing security operations.