The terrorists who abducted school children and their teachers in Oyo State are hiding in a forest covering 10 Local Government Areas, Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed.
Makinde said this in his newsletter 27 days after the abduction in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire LGA of the state.
He said this has made the rescue of the abducted students and teachers difficult despite the efforts of the government and security agents.
He wrote: One thing I can say is that our security reports indicate that they remain within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis.
“This is a vast area that stretches across parts of 10 local government areas in our State, covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.”
Makinde said in saying so, he was not painting a picture of hopelessness, but for the people to know that the terrain is a difficult one.
He further wrote: “I mention this not to discourage anyone, but to help us understand the scale of the challenge before us.
“This is not an issue affecting only Oriire Local Government Area.
“It is an issue that concerns all of us.
“The size and terrain of the area require patience, coordination and persistence.
“It also means that vigilance from members of the public remains extremely important.
“If you see anything suspicious, please call 615, the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry Number.
“The line is toll-free and staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
“Your report will be received and acted upon.
“We will continue to provide factual updates on the efforts being made to bring our children and their teachers home.
“However, I must once again appeal to all of us not to spread unverified information about these abductions. Please rely on official channels for information.
“These are sensitive matters, and we must avoid anything that could jeopardise rescue efforts.
“Continue to pray for their safe return.
“Continue to remain vigilant.
“And continue to support the efforts of our security agencies as we work towards bringing every one of them home safely.”
Makinde said his continued promise that the abductees would be safely rescued was not a hollow one.
He said despite the fact that the promise might sound hollow or empty, he stands by it.
He wrote: “I know that many times I have said, ‘We will get them home safely.’
“But I also know that having heard these words so often, without seeing that outcome yet, they may now sound hollow or empty.
“Please trust that they are not.
“We are doing everything within our power to bring them home safely.
“We cannot share the details of what we are doing, but you can rest assured that every single day, we continue to pursue every credible lead and take every lawful action available to us to secure their release.
“To the parents, relatives, friends and colleagues of those still in captivity: I know that no statement can ease your pain.
“But please know that your loved ones have not been forgotten.
“They remain at the centre of our efforts every single day.”
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