Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has disclosed that the pupils and teachers abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area nearly a month ago are still being held within the expansive Old Oyo National Park, as security agencies continue efforts to secure their release.

The governor made the revelation in Newsletter No. 140, issued on Friday, assuring residents that government and security operatives remain fully committed to rescuing the victims and reuniting them with their families.

According to Makinde, it has been 27 days since the schoolchildren and their teachers were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School in Esinle on May 15, 2026.

The governor acknowledged the anguish and uncertainty facing the affected families and communities, noting that while he has repeatedly assured residents that the victims would be rescued, he understands the growing concern as the days continue to pass without their return.

Despite the challenges, Makinde stressed that the state government and security agencies have not relented in their efforts to secure the safe release of the abductees.

“Every credible lead is being pursued and every lawful measure is being deployed to secure the safe release of the abductees,” the governor stated.

He explained that intelligence reports indicate that the victims remain within the wider Old Oyo National Park corridor, a vast territory spanning approximately 2,500 square kilometres and extending across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State.

Makinde noted that the sheer size of the park and its difficult terrain present significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic planning, and coordinated action to ensure a successful rescue mission.

“Intelligence reports indicate that the victims are still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast expanse covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in Oyo State,” he said.

“The size and difficult terrain of the area pose significant operational challenges for security personnel, requiring patience, strategic coordination, and sustained efforts to ensure a successful rescue operation.”

The governor reassured residents that security agencies remain actively engaged in tracking down the kidnappers and securing the freedom of the victims, emphasizing that every available resource is being mobilized toward achieving that objective.

Makinde also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through the state's toll-free emergency line, 615, assuring residents that all credible information would be treated with urgency and confidentiality.

He further warned against the circulation of unverified information regarding the abduction, stressing that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue operations and compromise security efforts.

The governor appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with actionable intelligence and to keep the abducted pupils and teachers in their thoughts and prayers as authorities work tirelessly to bring them home safely.