Tinubu Approves 1,000 Forest Guards as Oyo Teachers Begin Indefinite Strike

President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and ordered intensified rescue efforts to secure the release of abducted pupils and teachers kidnapped from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, as the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) commenced an indefinite strike over the prolonged captivity of the victims.

The presidential directive was conveyed on Sunday by a high-powered Federal Government delegation that visited affected communities in Oriire LGA, where dozens of schoolchildren and teachers have remained in captivity since a deadly abduction on May 15.

The development comes amid growing public concern over insecurity in the area and mounting pressure on authorities to secure the release of the victims.

FG Deploys Security Measures, Approves Forest Guards

According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the delegation was led by Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

During visits to Esiele and Yawota communities, the delegation informed residents that President Tinubu had approved the immediate recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to strengthen security around forest corridors frequently exploited by criminal groups.

The delegation also disclosed that requests by community leaders for the establishment of a military base in the area had been forwarded to the President for consideration.

Addressing residents, Gbajabiamila assured families that the Federal Government was deploying all available resources to ensure the safe return of the abductees.

“Mr President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.

He added that rescue operations would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated to avoid endangering the lives of those held captive.

Abduction Triggers National Concern

The victims were abducted on May 15 when armed men attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire LGA.

During the attack, a mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed, while a motorcyclist and a security operative also lost their lives during subsequent rescue attempts.

Among those still being held are a school principal, several teachers, dozens of pupils, and a two-year-old child.

Days after the incident, videos surfaced online showing some of the captives pleading with President Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde and Nigerians to help secure their release, describing harsh living conditions and exposure to severe weather in captivity.

The incident has renewed calls for stronger security measures in rural communities and educational institutions across Nigeria.

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Teachers Withdraw Services Over Continued Captivity

The Nigeria Union of Teachers escalated pressure on the government by declaring an indefinite strike across Oyo State beginning Monday, June 1, 2026.

In a circular signed by NUT National President Audu Amba and Secretary-General Dr Clinton Ikpitibo, the union directed all public primary and secondary school teachers in the state to withdraw their services until the abducted teachers and students regain their freedom.

The union described the conditions under which the victims are being held as “horrifying, inhumane and traumatic.”

“We have directed all teachers in Oyo State to remain at home starting from tomorrow (Monday),” Amba confirmed.

The NUT also announced nationwide solidarity rallies scheduled for June 2, during which state chapters will march to government houses across the country to demand improved security for schools, teachers and learners.

The Oyo State chapter of the union confirmed compliance with the directive, stating that the continued detention of teachers and pupils had created fear and uncertainty within the education sector.

Security, Education Stakeholders Demand Urgent Action

National Security Adviser Ribadu assured affected communities that security agencies were fully committed to rescuing the victims.

“We share in your pains and agonies. The perpetrators of this dastardly act are evil,” he said.

Chief of Defence Staff Musa urged residents to collaborate with security agencies and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing insecurity in the region.

Meanwhile, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Akanji, described the abduction as heartbreaking, particularly because young children, including a toddler, remain among the captives.

Akanji renewed calls for state police and greater community involvement in security management, arguing that local participation remains essential to tackling banditry and kidnapping.

Similarly, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to draw global attention to Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, citing recurring mass abductions and attacks across several states.

Pressure Mounts for Safe Return of Victims

The latest developments underscore growing frustration over persistent attacks on schools and communities despite ongoing security operations.

With teachers now on strike, nationwide solidarity protests planned, and pressure mounting from civil society groups, religious leaders and affected families, attention is increasingly focused on the Federal Government’s rescue efforts and broader strategy for tackling insecurity.

For residents of Oriire and the families of those still in captivity, the immediate priority remains the safe and unconditional return of the abducted pupils and teachers, whose ordeal has now entered its third week.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.