Oyo Abduction: Makinde Meets NAF Team, Speaks on Surveillance Aircraft Deployment

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Friday assured residents that efforts to rescue the teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area are ongoing, as he received a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force in Ibadan.

The delegation, led by Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, visited the governor amid growing concern over the fate of the victims, who were kidnapped during an attack on schools in Oriire LGA on May 15. The incident involved about 39 pupils and seven teachers and has continued to attract public attention across the state.

During the meeting, Makinde appealed to residents of affected communities, particularly Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele, to remain calm while security agencies continue efforts to secure the release of those still in captivity. He said the government has remained committed to bringing the victims home safely and has continued to work with security agencies on the operation.

The governor disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force had deployed a Diamond-42 surveillance aircraft to support ongoing rescue efforts through aerial monitoring.

According to him, the state government had earlier procured two aircraft of the same model, which are currently being assembled at a Nigerian Air Force facility in Lagos. He explained that the military provided another aircraft to assist operations while work on the state’s aircraft continues.

Makinde said the aircraft acquisition was part of the state’s efforts to strengthen security and support law enforcement agencies facing increasing operational demands. He also revealed that the state plans to collaborate with the Air Force on pilot training and maintenance arrangements once the aircraft become operational.

The governor further commended the relationship between the state government and the Nigerian Air Force, promising to continue supporting projects linked to the military in Oyo State. Among the projects mentioned were the completion of facilities at the Air Force Base and other infrastructure initiatives.

Speaking during the visit, the Air Force delegation reaffirmed its commitment to assisting in the rescue mission and other security operations within the state. The team also acknowledged the support the state government has provided to the military through various projects and partnerships.

The abduction crisis has deepened concerns across Oyo State, especially after reports emerged that one of the victims, mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the kidnappers. The development triggered renewed calls for urgent action from families, residents, labour groups and education stakeholders.

The situation also led the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers to begin an indefinite strike on June 1, demanding stronger security measures and the immediate rescue of those still being held.

As part of broader security measures, the governor recently announced restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. across the state, saying the move is aimed at strengthening security and limiting criminal activities.