Makinde Confirms Teacher Killed, Seven Abducted In Oyo Attack

Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that seven teachers were abducted during the recent attack on schools in the Oriire area of Oyo State, while one teacher was killed by the attackers.

Speaking to journalists after meeting with security chiefs, Makinde said the exact number of missing pupils was still being verified following the invasion of the schools by suspected gunmen.

According to the governor, an Islamic Studies teacher lost his life during the attack. He also disclosed that security operatives had arrested six suspects within the affected community, alongside three other persons of interest linked to the incident.

Makinde stated that the attackers are believed to be fleeing armed groups displaced by ongoing military offensives against terrorists and bandits in Nigeria’s North-West region.

“With increased pressure on terrorists and bandits in the North-West, many of them are moving southward,” the governor said, warning that states with weak security structures could become new targets.

He explained that the government was strengthening security coordination with neighbouring states to prevent further attacks and ensure that fleeing criminals are either repelled or neutralised.

The governor further revealed that preliminary intelligence reports indicated that some of those arrested may have served as informants for the attackers within the local communities.

Makinde added that the state government would not rely solely on military operations, saying consultations were ongoing with community leaders, religious leaders, and officials of the Baptist Convention, since one of the affected schools belongs to the church.

He appealed to residents to remain calm and assured families of the abducted victims that every effort was being made to secure their safe return.

Describing the incident as “painful and challenging,” the governor announced that the state government would begin daily press briefings to keep the public informed about rescue efforts and security developments.

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