The Nigerian Air Force has deployed aerial surveillance aircraft over Oriire Local Government Area in Oyo State to locate abducted pupils and teachers. The victims—from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School—were taken on May 15 during a single coordinated attack by armed bandits. One teacher was killed in captivity.
Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the deployment on June 5. He said the NAF provided the platform immediately after the abduction was reported. Intelligence gathered from the aircraft has guided ground search teams and helped track the abductors’ movements. Makinde appealed for public patience, stating that all available resources are being used to secure the victims’ release.
The governor revealed that Oyo State recently acquired its own aerial assets. These are still being assembled at the NAF Base in Lagos. The state consulted the Air Force to ensure access to maintenance, engineering expertise, and pilot training. Once operational, the assets will cover Oyo and neighbouring states.
Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, representing the Chief of the Air Staff, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to the rescue operation. He praised the Oyo State Government for its support of NAF projects and infrastructure. The Christian Association of Nigeria’s South-West chapter has called for a state of emergency on security, citing rising abductions in Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Lagos.
