We’re working with international partners to secure return of Orire abductees — Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu
Abdullateef Fowewe
President Bola Tinubu has claimed his administration is working with international partners to secure the safe return of villagers abducted in Orire Local Government, Oyo State.
Representing the president at the commissioning of the Premier Hotel in Ibadan, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, told residents, “I wish to assure you that every realistic measure, including international collaboration, is being taken to ensure that the kidnapped victims in Orire Local Government are safely brought home without harm or avoidable loss of life.”
He added that the federal government was “seriously addressing the upswing in banditry, kidnapping and associated criminalities, across the nation,” and urged citizens, traditional rulers and faith-based institutions to work closely with security agencies.
The statement follows the May 15 abduction of 46 people in Oriire Local Government Area, an attack that included 39 children and seven teachers.
One teacher was killed during the raid, and authorities say the remaining hostages are being held in the Old Oyo National Park.
Reports indicate some abductees are toddlers, including children as young as two years old.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde visited the affected community and reiterated that rescue operations are a top priority, confirming that efforts have located the abductees in the national park.
The Nigerian Senate has also issued a formal condemnation of the attack.
The Oyo State Police Command said it is actively coordinating rescue efforts and dismissed several circulating social-media claims, including the alleged arrest of a local traditional ruler, Oba Tajudeen Abioye, and reports that a pastor was detained for supplying arms to the bandits, calling such reports misleading and unverified.
