Dare Babalola
President Bola Tinubu has condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted during last Friday’s attack on the Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Gunmen had invaded the community and abducted staff, students and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the killing as barbaric and assured that ongoing security operations would secure the release of the remaining victims.
Tinubu said security operatives were working round the clock to rescue the abductees and apprehend those behind the attack, including collaborators within the community.
The President sympathised with Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State Government and families of the victims over the incident.
“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by the gunmen who invaded the community. I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps he has taken on the matter. I sympathise with the families of the kidnapped victims,” Tinubu said.
He added that the Federal Government was collaborating with the Oyo State Government to ensure the safe rescue of all victims.
Tinubu also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara states for their swift response and deployment of tactical teams and the Intelligence Response Team for the rescue mission.
According to the President, the IGP is personally leading a technology-driven operation following directives from the Presidency.
“We expect a breakthrough soon. The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he stated.
Tinubu further said the rising cases of kidnapping across the country underscore the need for the establishment of state police, urging the National Assembly to fast-track legislation on the matter.
“Cases of kidnapping further make imperative the establishment of state police to man some of our underserved areas. The National Assembly should accelerate the enactment of the law creating state police,” the President said.
