Governor Seyi Makinde has extended a curfew in ten local government areas of Oyo State by an additional 24 hours as security forces intensify efforts to rescue 39 students and seven teachers abducted from schools in the Oriire district .
The curfew, initially imposed on June 23, 2026, as a dusk-to-dawn measure from 4:00 pm to 8:00 am, was set to expire after 48 hours . With this extension announced on Thursday, June 25, the restrictions will now remain in effect until Saturday, June 27, 2026 .
Affected Areas and Security Concerns
The curfew covers ten local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park, where authorities believe the abducted victims are being held . The affected LGAs include Oriire, Orelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Itesiwaju, Iseyin, Olorunsogo, and Atiba .
The Old Oyo National Park has become a growing source of concern for residents due to rising criminal activities in the forest region . Security agencies have been conducting intensive operations in the area to locate and rescue the captives, who have now spent over 40 days in captivity following the May 15 attack .
The Abduction Incident
The crisis began when bandits attacked three schools—Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School—in the Ahoro-Esinele community of Oriire Local Government Area . During the assault, one teacher was killed, and another was reportedly beheaded while in captivity .
The abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, while increasingly common in other parts of Nigeria, remains relatively rare in the country's southwestern region, heightening public concern .
Government Response
Governor Makinde announced the curfew extension through a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde . The measure aims to strengthen security operations and create conditions necessary for effective rescue efforts .
In a statement on Friday, Makinde reassured residents that his administration remains committed to securing the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, noting that security agencies continue coordinated operations with full government support .
The governor also emphasized that while security operations continue, preparations are underway to ensure schools can safely resume, as education remains a top priority . He stated, "Education remains too important to be placed indefinitely on hold, and every decision continues to balance learning with the safety of our children" .
Residents in the affected areas have been urged to cooperate fully with security agencies and comply with the directive as efforts continue to safeguard lives and property .
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