Governor Makinde Opens Door for Negotiations With School Abductors as Child Safety Fears Intensify in Oyo
The abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State has raised fresh concerns about child safety and school security.
Governor Seyi Makinde says the government is open to talks with the abductors. He made this known while speaking to journalists in Ibadan at his Kolapo Ishola residence.
Gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on Friday. They took away several students and teachers during the raid.
Makinde confirmed the figures. Seven students were taken from Community Secondary School. In addition, 18 children and seven teachers were taken from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School. One person was also killed during the attack.
Security operations are still ongoing. The governor said the situation remains difficult but under active response from security forces.
He also spoke on possible engagement with the abductors. “To the group, all I can say is that as a government, we will not give in to terror,” Makinde said. “We will do everything to ensure that our children and their teachers are returned safely.”
He added, “Whatever it is they demand, we are ready to listen to them and address the ones we can address as a state government. But the children and their teachers must be released.”
Makinde urged residents to share information quickly with security agencies. He said delays in reporting may have weakened prevention efforts.
Child protection advocates say the attack shows growing risks for schools in vulnerable areas. They warn that abductions can cause long-term emotional harm to children.
Meanwhile, the state has set up an operational centre at the police headquarters in Ibadan. It will coordinate rescue efforts and security updates.
Makinde also confirmed that new surveillance aircraft will begin operations before the end of June. He said this will improve monitoring along border communities in the state.
Finally, the governor asked the media and public not to sensationalize the case. He stressed that lives are still at risk, and efforts to secure the release of the affected persons continue.
