Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has assured residents that intensive efforts are underway to secure the release of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, stating that security agencies are working continuously to achieve a successful outcome. The governor gave the assurance as the Oyo abduction rescue operation entered a critical stage.
Makinde spoke on Friday while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) led by the Air Officer Commanding, Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar A. Suleh, in Ibadan. Addressing concerns over the abduction, the governor appealed to residents, particularly those in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire LGA, to remain calm and patient while security personnel intensify efforts to locate and rescue the victims.
As part of the ongoing Oyo abduction rescue mission, Makinde commended the Nigerian Air Force for deploying a Diamond-42 surveillance aircraft to support real-time monitoring and intelligence gathering. The governor explained that Oyo State had previously acquired two Diamond-42 aircraft to strengthen security operations. He noted that the aircraft are currently being assembled at the NAF base in Lagos.
According to him, the Air Force provided a replacement surveillance aircraft to assist ongoing operations while the state’s aircraft undergo final fitting and assembly. Makinde said the acquisition of the aircraft was a proactive measure aimed at supporting security agencies that are already handling multiple security challenges across the country.
The governor disclosed that his administration intends to accept the Air Force’s offer to train pilots and provide technical support for the maintenance of the aircraft once they become operational.
He also praised the longstanding cooperation between the Nigerian Air Force and residents of Ibadan, describing the relationship as beneficial to both parties. Makinde pledged that the state government would continue to fulfil its commitments to the Air Force, including support for the completion of the Air Force Base and other ongoing projects.
Air Vice Marshal Suleh apologised on behalf of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, who was unable to attend the meeting due to official national assignments. He assured the governor that all Nigerian Air Force units involved in the Oyo abduction rescue operation remain committed to achieving a swift resolution.
Suleh also commended the Oyo State Government for its support of the Air Force, highlighting projects such as the perimeter fence at the Air Force School in Iyana Offa, the dualisation of the Ajia Air Force Base road, and approvals for land designated for housing and agricultural purposes. The delegation included the Group Managing Director of NAF Investments Limited, Air Vice Marshal Ibitayo Victor Ajiboye, and the Commander of Air Force Station Ibadan, Air Commodore D.U. Njoku.
