The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it is sustaining aerial surveillance operations and supporting other security agencies to rescue pupils abducted by terrorists in Oyo state.
On May 15, suspected bandits attacked three schools in the Oriire LGA in Oyo, abducting about 39 students and seven teachers.
The crisis escalated days later when Michael Oyedokun, one of the abducted teachers, was killed by the abductors.
In a recent video released on Instagram, Rachael Alamu, principal of Community High School, Esiele, who is among the abductees, said the kidnappers had threatened to kill another victim, urging authorities to urgently negotiate their release.
In a courtesy visit to Seyi Makinde, Oyo governor, in Ibadan, the state capital, Sunday Aneke, chief of air staff (CAS), reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to complement ongoing efforts and secure the safe return of the abducted victims.
A statement by Ehimen Ejodame, NAF’s director of public relations and information, said the NAF is committed to collaborating with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives, property and address security challenges across the country.
Aneke, who was represented by Abubakar Suleh, air officer commanding (AOC), logistics command, commended the Oyo state government for its continued support for NAF projects and infrastructure development within the state.
Responding, Makinde said NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence for ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
Makinde said intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has continued to assist security agencies in tracking developments and coordinating efforts towards the safe release of the victims.
He appealed to residents to remain patient and supportive.
The governor assured residents that all necessary resources are being deployed to secure the successful rescue of the abducted pupils.
