President Bola Tinubu has condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted during an attack on schools in Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric.
The President gave the assurance on Monday while rescue operations for the remaining victims continue.
Bandits had invaded the Esiele community last Friday and abducted staff, students and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
According to the Presidency, security operatives are working round the clock to rescue the victims and apprehend the kidnappers as well as their collaborators within the community.
President Tinubu sympathised with Governor Seyi Makinde, the government and people of Oyo State over the incident, assuring them of the Federal Government’s support in securing the release of the abducted victims.
“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,” the President said.
He added that the Federal Government is collaborating with the Oyo State Government to rescue all the victims and commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara states for their swift intervention.
Tinubu disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police, acting on his directive, is personally leading a technology-driven operation involving the Tactical Team and the Intelligence Response Team to secure the victims’ release.
“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.
The President also reiterated his support for the establishment of state police, saying the growing cases of kidnapping highlight the need for state policing in underserved areas across the country.
He urged the National Assembly to expedite action on legislation establishing state police.
