Makinde confirms NAF aerial operations as state’s new assets remain in Lagos; urges residents to support rescue efforts

The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, has deployed a surveillance aircraft to boost the search for teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area. Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed the development on Friday during a visit by top Air Force officials to Ibadan.

The deployment came shortly after the abduction was reported, with the Air Force responding by sending an aerial surveillance platform to provide real-time intelligence for ongoing search-and-rescue operations. According to Governor Makinde, the intelligence gathered from these missions has played a crucial role in tracking developments and helping security agencies coordinate their efforts to secure the victims’ release.

The incident has heightened concerns about safety in Oyo State, particularly as insecurity continues to affect schools and rural communities across the South-West. The abduction of students and teachers is part of a wider pattern that has drawn national attention, prompting state authorities to intensify collaboration with federal security agencies.

Makinde, while addressing residents, urged affected communities and the wider public to remain patient and support ongoing security operations. He assured that all necessary resources were being mobilised for a successful resolution. The governor also commended Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, for their swift action and sustained support. He noted that while Oyo State’s own newly acquired aerial assets were still being assembled at the NAF Base in Lagos, the Nigerian Air Force stepped in to provide vital surveillance capacity.

“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations,” Makinde said during the meeting. “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 further appealed for calm among residents and reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring security within Oyo State. As at Sunday evening, security operations were still ongoing while stakeholders awaited further updates from authorities.

Source: https://punchng.com/naf-deploys-surveillance-aircraft-to-track-abducted-oyo-teachers-pupils/