The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to support efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, made this disclosure during a courtesy visit over the weekend by the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, who represented the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the governor said the Air Force responded swiftly after the abduction was reported by deploying a surveillance platform that has continued to provide intelligence to security agencies involved in the search-and-rescue operation.
Makinde noted that intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has been instrumental in tracking developments and coordinating efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims.
“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations.
“Intelligence generated from the surveillance missions has continued to assist security agencies in tracking developments and coordinating efforts towards securing the safe release of the victims,” he said.
The governor appealed to residents of the affected communities and the state at large to remain patient and continue supporting ongoing security operations.
He assured residents that all necessary resources were being deployed to ensure the successful resolution of the incident.
Makinde also commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their swift response and sustained support, noting that the surveillance aircraft was made available while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets were still being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Lagos.
The governor explained that the state government acquired the aerial platforms following consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure access to maintenance support, engineering expertise and pilot training.
He expressed optimism that the assets would significantly enhance security operations in Oyo State and neighbouring states once they become fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Suleh reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims.
He conveyed the Air Force’s solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State, stressing that the service would continue to work with other security agencies to address security challenges.
Suleh said the Air Force remained committed to supporting ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
He also commended the Oyo State Government for its support toward Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
The Nigerian Air Force stated that it would continue to collaborate closely with relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property across the country.
Recall that armed men stormed three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15 and abducted 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The incident has continued to raise concerns over school security and persistent attacks on educational institutions in parts of the country.