A series of recent attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has prompted strong condemnation and urgent calls for enhanced security measures. The attacks, reportedly carried out by suspected bandits, targeted Baptist Primary School, Yawota, and Community High School, Esin-Ele (also referred to as LA Primary School and Community Grammar School at Ahoro-Esinele Community), leading to the abduction of several students, the school principal, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, two vice principals, and three teachers. Tragically, one teacher was also reportedly killed during the incident.

Olamijuwonlo Alao Akala, the House of Representatives member representing Ogbomosho North/Ogbomosho South/Oriire Federal Constituency, strongly condemned the attacks during a condolence visit to Oko-Ile community. He described the 'inhumane criminal act' as a direct assault on education and a grave threat to public safety. Akala urged security agencies in Ogbomoso and across Oyo State to intensify efforts for the immediate rescue of the abducted victims and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Furthermore, he appealed to the Federal Government to fast-track the implementation of state policing and establish a military base in Oriire Local Government Area to counter recurring attacks and address the escalating insecurity in the region.

In response to the abductions, the Oyo State Government, through its Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, confirmed that security agencies have sealed off all escape routes for the suspects. Coordinated security operations have effectively confined the suspected bandits within the National Park axis, preventing their movement into neighboring states. Immediately following the Friday attack at approximately 11 a.m., security agencies including the Nigerian Army, Civil Defence Agro Rangers, and the Nigeria Police Force (with officers from the Monitoring Unit) were mobilized for rescue operations. Patrol operations commenced, with intelligence indicating the suspects remained within the National Park in Oyo State. Three separate patrol teams, comprising Amotekun operatives and hunters drawn from seven local government areas in Oke-Ogun, were deployed through Igbeti towards Oloka and adjoining communities.

From captivity, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, Esiele, made a distress video appeal. Appearing visibly distressed, Mrs. Alamu recounted that the attackers invaded the school around 9:30 a.m. on Friday, abducting numerous staff members and students. She earnestly appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Oyo State Government, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and all well-meaning Nigerians to intervene urgently for a peaceful resolution, to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals and prevent any loss of life.

As of the latest reports, direct contact with the abductors has yet to be established. Authorities are focused on accurately determining the exact number of pupils affected, as school authorities have not yet provided complete records of missing children. Security operatives, alongside local vigilantes and hunters familiar with the terrain, continue to mount coordinated search operations, strengthening surveillance across strategic routes linked to the National Park. The development has significantly heightened tension among residents, with parents and community members calling for swift action. Authorities have appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate by sharing credible information to assist the ongoing rescue efforts, assuring the public of the active engagement of state government and security personnel in securing the safe release of the victims.