Suspected local informants working with terrorists arrested – Makinde

…suspects arrested, engaging neighboring states

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo revealed that suspected local informants working with terrorists behind the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Makinde made this known after a high-level security review meeting with security advisers and service commanders over the attack that occurred at Ahoro Esinle Community in Oriire Local Government Area.

“We just finished a review of the security situation in the local government area where the abduction of some teachers and schoolchildren took place. First, let me appeal to the families involved that their government is working round the clock to tackle this challenge.

The security agencies, he pointed out, had already recorded some breakthroughs in the ongoing operation, with several suspects arrested within the affected community.

“From the information available from the Commissioner of Police, about six individuals have been arrested within the locality. Some of them, we believe, are informants or people handling logistics for the terrorists. Also, three other persons of interest have been arrested by another security outfit in the state,” he stated.

Makinde explained that the government had adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in addressing the crisis, stressing that while security forces were actively pursuing the abductors, efforts were also being made through other channels to secure the victims’ release without further casualties.

While saying that the state government was working round the clock to rescue the seven abducted teachers and an unconfirmed number of pupils kidnapped during the incident, assured residents that every available strategy was being deployed to ensure the safe return of the victims.

“We are not taking this situation lightly. We understand the anger and concern among our people, especially leaders and residents in Oriire Local Government.

“But we must recognise that this is a difficult and challenging situation. There may not be quick fixes, but we will continue to push ourselves to the limit to resolve it quickly and safely,” he added.

On  growing threat of terrorist movements into southern states, the, Makinde said sustained military pressure against bandits and terrorists in the North-West and North-East had forced many criminal elements to migrate southward.

He disclosed that his administration was already engaging neighbouring states, including Kwara State, on collaborative security measures aimed at preventing the infiltration of criminal groups into Oyo State.

“The governor of Kwara State has spoken with me. When terrorists face pressure in one region, they tend to move elsewhere. So, we must strengthen our security architecture to repel or neutralise such threats before they gain ground,” Makinde said.