Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that one of the teachers abducted during the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has been killed by terrorists.
Makinde made the disclosure during a press briefing on the school abduction incident, days after armed men invaded schools in Ahoro-Esinele community and kidnapped dozens of teachers and pupils.
Makinde confirms teacher’s death
According to the governor, intelligence reports available to the state government showed that seven teachers were abducted during the attack.
He added that one of the victims, identified as a mathematics teacher, was killed after a disturbing video surfaced online.
“What we know right now is that seven teachers were abducted. And unfortunately, we got a video this morning that one of the teachers, I understand the maths teacher, was killed by the terrorists this morning. Of course our prayers are with the family,” Makinde said.
RNN had earlier reported that a viral video allegedly showed Mr. Oyedekun being beheaded while in captivity.
Government adopts new rescue strategies
The governor stated that the state government had begun combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to address the crisis and secure the release of the remaining victims.
He revealed that consultations were ongoing with community leaders, security agencies and religious organisations, including the Baptist Convention whose school was affected during the attack.
According to Makinde, the situation remains difficult and sensitive, stressing that authorities are doing everything possible to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers safely.
“We have decided that we will adopt not just the kinetic approach. There has been a lot of threats… I want to appeal. We have not taken this lightly,” he said.
Makinde appeals for calm
The governor appealed to residents of the affected communities and the people of Oyo State to cooperate with security agencies and support rescue efforts.
He insisted that the priority of government remained the safe return of the remaining abducted victims.
“I want to appeal that we do everything within our power to ensure that this is resolved quickly and we bring our children back safely. But it is a very difficult and challenging situation,” he added.
Makinde also announced that the state government would commence daily press briefings to keep the public updated on developments surrounding the rescue operations.