Defence Headquarters Dismisses Terrorist Base Claims In South-west, Intensifies Search For Abducted Oyo Pupils

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports claiming that terrorist groups have established a permanent base in Nigeria’s South-west region, describing the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State as an isolated criminal incident.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Defence spokesperson, Major General Michael Onoja, said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed sympathy to the families of the victims, the Oyo State Government, and Nigerians over the tragic attack.

He described the abduction of innocent pupils and school staff as a “reprehensible act,” assuring that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are fully committed to securing the safe release of all victims.

The attack occurred in communities within Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen reportedly invaded two schools and abducted at least 45 persons, including pupils and teachers. Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the incident and disclosed that one teacher was killed during the attack.

According to reports, the kidnappers moved the victims into the forest areas around the Old Oyo National Park. Governor Makinde also stated that the government remains open to negotiations aimed at rescuing the victims.

Following the incident, concerns emerged among Nigerians over fears that terrorists may have established operational camps in the South-west. However, the DHQ insisted that intelligence reports do not support such claims.

Mr Onoja explained that the military had previously carried out clearance operations around the Old Oyo National Park corridor, significantly weakening criminal elements operating within the area.

He stressed that the latest attack should not be interpreted as evidence of an established terrorist structure in the region, warning against spreading narratives capable of causing panic or exaggerating the strength of criminal groups.

The Defence spokesperson further revealed that troops have intensified operations across forests and surrounding areas in search of the abductors. He added that security forces had earlier engaged the criminals and were reorganising efforts to sustain ongoing search-and-rescue operations.

He also noted that joint operations involving other security agencies and local vigilante groups are currently ongoing, while residents have been urged to support security agencies with useful intelligence to aid the safe rescue of the victims.