The Oyo State Police Command has launched a large-scale manhunt and rescue operation following coordinated attacks on schools and communities in Oriire Local Government Area, which led to the abduction of pupils, students, and school staff.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident occurred in the early hours of 15 May 2026.
The attackers, described as armed hoodlums riding motorcycles, reportedly struck simultaneously at Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, as well as Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele.
During the assault, several pupils, students, and staff members were abducted, including the Vice Principal of the affected school, Mrs Alamu Folawe.
The police confirmed that an Assistant Headmaster, identified as Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack, while an okada rider also lost his life after reportedly resisting attempts by the assailants to seize his motorcycle.
Authorities clarified that no pupil or student had been confirmed dead at the time of filing the report.
Investigations further revealed that Community Grammar School shares premises with L.A. Primary School in Esiele. The attackers also reportedly stole a Toyota Corolla belonging to the abducted Vice Principal and set it ablaze along a forest route.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, led a delegation of senior officers and tactical commanders to the affected communities for an on-the-spot assessment and operational coordination.
The police said specialised tactical teams, intelligence units, and other operational resources had been deployed to the area to restore order, rescue the abducted victims, and apprehend those responsible.
Residents were urged to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of security efforts by providing credible information to aid ongoing rescue operations.
They were also advised to contact emergency lines, including the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free number 615, as well as police control room numbers, in case of urgent information or emergencies.
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