Governor Seyi Makinde says security agencies have intensified rescue operations as Oyo imposes a temporary curfew and awaits delivery of a surveillance aircraft

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday assured residents that the safe rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area remains the foremost priority of his administration, saying security agencies have intensified coordinated operations to secure their release.

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Makinde gave the assurance in a statement, stressing that the Oyo State Government is providing every necessary support to security agencies conducting the rescue mission while taking additional measures to strengthen security across affected communities.

“Security agencies have continued intensive operations aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted children and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area. These efforts remain active and coordinated, with government providing every necessary support to the security agencies involved,” the governor said.

As part of efforts to enhance the ongoing operations, Makinde disclosed that the government had approved a temporary 16-hour curfew in 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park.

According to him, the measure is intended to strengthen security operations and create the conditions required for the safe rescue of the victims.

The governor also reassured parents and residents that preparations were underway to ensure the safe reopening of schools despite prevailing security concerns.

“While these security operations continue, our administration still has the responsibility of ensuring that essential public services continue to function. Preparations are therefore underway to ensure that schools can safely resume while every necessary precaution is taken to protect pupils, teachers and their communities.

“Education remains too important to be placed indefinitely on hold, and every decision continues to balance learning with the safety of our children,” he added.

Providing an update on the state’s security infrastructure, Makinde revealed that the delivery of Oyo State’s surveillance aircraft had entered its final stage but would arrive later than initially projected because of additional technical procedures.

“I would also like to report that the delivery of Oyo State’s surveillance aircraft is in its final phases.

“Additional technical procedures required before handover have extended the anticipated delivery timeline beyond the previously projected June delivery date. These final processes are designed to ensure that every operational, regulatory and safety requirement has been fully satisfied before the aircraft enters service.

“Although this has resulted in a modest adjustment to the delivery schedule, it will ensure that the aircraft is delivered fully prepared for immediate operational deployment,” he stated.

Makinde explained that the aircraft would become a powerful asset for the state by enhancing aerial surveillance, emergency response and broader security operations while supporting other government functions.

“When commissioned, the aircraft will significantly strengthen the state’s capacity for aerial surveillance, rapid emergency response and wider security operations, while also supporting other critical government functions,” he said.

The governor pledged that the government would continue to keep residents informed as the delivery process reaches completion.

He further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving public safety while sustaining investments in education, infrastructure and other strategic sectors.

“One thing remains true: Every period presents its own challenges. Some require immediate action, while others require steady investment in the future.

“The work of government demands both.

“As security agencies continue their operations, our administration will continue to strengthen the systems, infrastructure and institutions that improve the lives of our people.

“From public safety to education, infrastructure and strategic investments, our commitment remains the same: to build a safer, stronger and more prosperous Oyo State for everyone.

“We thank the good people of Oyo State for their continued cooperation, resilience and support,” Makinde added.

The latest assurance comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

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The state government has in recent months invested in technology-driven security initiatives, including the acquisition of a surveillance aircraft, as part of broader efforts to improve intelligence gathering, support law enforcement agencies and enhance the protection of lives and property.