President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the killing of a teacher abducted from Esiele community in Oyo State, vowing that all remaining victims will be rescued. He also called on the National Assembly to expedite legislation allowing states to establish their own police forces to address rising insecurity.
President Reacts to Tragic Killing
In a statement issued on Monday, Tinubu described the murder as barbaric and expressed sorrow over the loss. He commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his swift response and assured that the federal government is working closely with Oyo State to secure the release of other abductees.
The attack occurred on May 15, 2026, when bandits invaded Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting staff and students from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School. Seven teachers and an unknown number of pupils were taken.
Security Operations Underway
Tinubu revealed that the Inspector-General of Police is personally leading a tech-driven operation to rescue the victims. He stated, “We expect a breakthrough soon. The bandits and their local collaborators will be fished out and face the full wrath of the law.”
The president also praised the quick intervention of police commissioners in Oyo and Kwara states, as well as the deployment of the Intelligence Response Team.
Call for State Police
Tinubu used the incident to renew his push for state police, arguing that it would help secure underserved areas. He urged the National Assembly to accelerate the passage of a law establishing state police forces across Nigeria.
“Cases of kidnapping further make imperative the establishment of state police to man some of our underserved areas,” Tinubu said.
Governor Makinde Confirms Killing
Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the death of one teacher, identified as a mathematics teacher, after a security meeting on May 17. He said, “Unfortunately, we received a video this morning indicating that one of the teachers was killed by the terrorists. Our prayers are with the family.”
Makinde assured that efforts to rescue the remaining abductees would continue.
Background of Insecurity
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which mirrors patterns of banditry and insurgency common in northern and central Nigeria. Oyo and Kwara states have experienced repeated attacks despite military operations, highlighting security gaps in rural areas.
Mass kidnappings, especially targeting schools, have become a major challenge in Nigeria, though such incidents are less frequent in the south.
Broader Concerns
Former Senator Shehu Sani attributed Nigeria’s prolonged battle with banditry and terrorism to corruption, alleging that resources meant for security agencies often do not reach frontline officers. He noted that terrorists avoid attacking neighboring countries like Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, but exploit Nigeria’s vulnerabilities.
The federal government continues to face pressure to address insecurity, with President Tinubu reiterating his commitment to protecting all citizens.
