The Baale of Yawota, Esiele, within the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has disclosed that some government officials came to the community to consoled them over kidnapping of schoolchildren.
The community leader said the delegates who are reportedly from Oyo state Governor Seyi Makinde came with relief materials such as rice and money but women of the village rejected the relief.
They insisted on safe return of their children who are kidnapped by bandits after invading schools in the area.
This poignant statement underscores the immense grief and resolve of a community prioritizing the safety of their children over material palliatives.
GISTSMATE MEDIA reported that on May 15, 2026, heavily armed bandits stormed multiple schools, including the Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, killing at least two people (including a teacher) and abducting dozens.
Devastated by the security breach, many residents began fleeing the affected communities out of fear of subsequent attacks.
Government Response
Following the outpour of public grief and community pressure, the federal and state governments escalated their response:
A specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities was deployed to the area to lead intelligence-driven rescue operations.
President Bola Tinubu approved the immediate recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to secure local forests.
The community’s request for the permanent establishment of a military base in the Oriire axis is currently under urgent consideration by federal authorities.
