More than five weeks after the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, security agencies have intensified efforts to secure their release, with authorities confirming that the victims are still being held within the expansive Old Oyo National Park corridor.

Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed that intelligence reports indicate the abducted pupils and teachers remain within the national park area, a vast forest reserve covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres across parts of ten local government areas in the state.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities. The incident sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the growing threat of terrorism and mass abductions in Nigeria's South-West region.

According to the governor, the difficult terrain of the Old Oyo National Park has posed significant operational challenges for security personnel conducting rescue operations. He, however, assured residents that security agencies are pursuing every credible lead and deploying all lawful measures to ensure the safe return of the captives.

Recent reports indicate that troops and other security operatives have intensified pressure on the abductors, who are believed to be moving the victims between locations within the forest to evade detection. Some security sources claim that soldiers have restricted possible escape routes, making it increasingly difficult for the kidnappers to relocate the victims outside the area.

The rescue mission has not been without casualties. Governor Makinde recently confirmed that military personnel involved in the operation have lost their lives while pursuing the abductors. Reports also indicate that one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was killed shortly after the abduction.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that the kidnappers have made several demands, including the release of detained terrorist commanders. However, authorities have maintained that the government remains focused on securing the release of the victims and has not publicly indicated any willingness to negotiate with the abductors.

The prolonged captivity of the pupils and teachers has continued to generate nationwide concern, with civil society groups, labour unions, religious organisations, and education stakeholders calling for urgent action to secure their freedom.

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLAN) recently joined the growing list of groups demanding the safe rescue of the victims, describing the situation as a test of the government's commitment to protecting children and ensuring safety in schools.

As rescue operations continue, the Oyo State Government has urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing security efforts.

For the families of the abducted pupils and teachers, the wait continues amid hopes that the intensified military and intelligence operations will soon lead to the safe return of their loved ones.