In a rapid development following the heartbreaking viral video from captives in Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has officially confirmed the details surrounding the Friday morning attack in the Oriire Local Government Area.

Speaking on Sunday after an emergency meeting with state service commanders and security chiefs, Governor Makinde provided critical updates on casualties, arrests, and the government's strategy to rescue the hostages.

The Casualties: What We Know So Far

While headcount verifications are still underway to determine the exact number of missing pupils, the governor confirmed the following:

  • 7 Teachers Abducted: A total of seven teachers are confirmed to have been taken by the gunmen.

  • 1 Fatality: Tragically, an Islamic Studies teacher was killed by the attackers during the assault on the school community.

Security Breakthrough: Informants and Suspects in Custody

Law enforcement has moved swiftly within the local government area. Governor Makinde revealed that security agencies have already made nine arrests linked to the incident.

“The information available is that about six individuals have been arrested within the locality. Some of them we believe are informants. Also, three individuals of interest have been arrested,” Makinde stated.

The Big Picture: Terrorists Fleeing the North-West

Addressing how this security breach occurred in a relatively peaceful state, Governor Makinde explained that the attackers are believed to be bandits and terrorists fleeing intense military operations in Nigeria's North-West region.

“With the pressure on the terrorists and the bandits in the North-West, they will keep moving southward," the governor warned. "But the problem that we have is when you have pressure in one place, we must be prepared on this side to either repel or neutralise any terrorists fleeing the pressure points.”

The Strategy Moving Forward

Oyo State will not rely solely on military force. Governor Makinde announced a hybrid approach that combines security operations with high-level community diplomacy, specifically engaging with local leaders, elders, and the leadership of the Baptist Convention.

Closing his brief, the governor offered words of reassurance to the traumatized families:

“We are not taking this lightly. We will do everything within our means to resolve this quickly and bring our children back safely.”