President Bola Tinubu has condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted during a bandit attack on schools in Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric.
The President also vowed that the kidnappers and their local collaborators would be tracked down and made to face the full wrath of the law.
Bandits had invaded the Esiele community last Friday, abducting staff, students and pupils from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said security operatives were working round the clock to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The President sympathised with Governor Seyi Makinde, the government and people of Oyo State, as well as the families of the abducted victims.
“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by the gunmen who invaded the community. I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps he has taken on the matter. I sympathise with the families of the kidnapped victims,” Tinubu said.
He disclosed that the Federal Government was collaborating with the Oyo State Government to ensure the safe rescue of all victims still in captivity.
Tinubu also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara states for their swift response, including the deployment of tactical teams and the Intelligence Response Team to the area.
According to the President, the Inspector-General of Police is personally leading a technology-driven operation on his directive, expressing optimism that security agencies would soon record a breakthrough.
“The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
Tinubu further stated that the recurring cases of kidnapping across the country underscored the urgent need for state police, urging the National Assembly to accelerate the passage of legislation establishing state policing structures to strengthen security in underserved areas.