The Oyo State Police Command said it has launched an intensive manhunt and rescue operation following a coordinated attack by armed hoodlums on schools and surrounding communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the attack occurred in the early hours of May 15, 2026, and led to the death of an assistant headmaster.
The police said preliminary investigation showed that the attackers, who operated on motorcycles, simultaneously invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, as well as Community Grammar School/L. A Primary School, Esiele, abducting pupils, students and staff members, including the Vice Principal, Mrs Alamu Folawe.
Ayanlade said no pupil or student had been confirmed killed as at the time of filing this report, adding that an assistant headmaster, identified as Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack.
He also disclosed that an okada rider was shot dead after reportedly resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.
The police said, “The command further gathered that Community Grammar School, Esiele, operates within the same premises as L. A Primary School, Esiele. The attackers, after abducting some victims, also took away a Toyota Corolla vehicle belonging to the abducted Vice Principal and later set the vehicle ablaze along the road leading to the forest.
“Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately led operatives alongside other service commanders to the scene for on-the-spot assessment and operational coordination, while simultaneously directing a comprehensive manhunt for the perpetrators.
“Operational assets, tactical teams and intelligence platforms have since been deployed to the affected communities to prevent any further breakdown of law and order, ensure public safety and facilitate the rescue of the abducted victims as well as the apprehension of those responsible for the heinous act.”
The police urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and provide credible information that could aid ongoing rescue efforts.
