Ibadan, Nigeria – June 8, 2026, The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to support ongoing efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The deployment follows the recent abduction of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers by armed kidnappers who attacked educational institutions in the affected communities, sparking widespread concern among residents and authorities.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State disclosed that the surveillance aircraft was deployed shortly after the incident was reported, providing real-time intelligence to security agencies involved in the search-and-rescue operation. According to the governor, the aerial surveillance mission is expected to enhance the effectiveness of ground operations by helping security personnel track the movement of the abductors and identify possible hideouts.
The governor commended the Nigerian Air Force for its swift response and continued support, noting that collaboration between state and federal security agencies remains crucial in securing the safe release of the victims.
“The support from the Nigerian Air Force has strengthened our rescue efforts significantly. Intelligence gathered through aerial surveillance is assisting security operatives in coordinating their operations more effectively,” Makinde stated.
The abduction, which reportedly involved 39 pupils and seven teachers, has drawn national attention and renewed concerns over the growing threat of kidnapping and attacks on schools across the country. Reports indicate that at least one teacher was killed during the attack, while another was allegedly murdered while in captivity.
A delegation representing the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, assured the Oyo State Government and affected families that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to supporting all efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
Security agencies have intensified operations across the affected areas, combining aerial reconnaissance with ground-based search missions as they work to locate the abductors and rescue those held captive.
Meanwhile, residents of Oriire Local Government Area have called on the government to strengthen security measures in rural communities to prevent future attacks and protect schools from criminal elements.
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