Oyo school abduction: NAF deploys surveillance aircraft to rescue kidnapped teachers, pupils

From Molly Kilete, Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force(NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to support the ongoing efforts to rescue teachers and pupils kidnapped in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities in Oriire Local Government, Oyo State.

NAF Director of Public Relations and Information,Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame,  said Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde disclosed this when he received the representative of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, in his office.

Makinde 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.

According to the governor, intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has been instrumental in tracking developments and coordinating efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims.

Ejodame, in a statement, said Makinde commended the NAF, which he said promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations.

According to him, 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  appealed for patience and support from residents, assuring them that all necessary resources are being deployed to ensure the successful resolution of the situation. He commended the CAS and the NAF for their swift response and sustained support, noting that the Air Force made the surveillance platform available while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base, Lagos.

Makinde further explained that the state acquired the platforms following consultations with the NAF to ensure access to maintenance support, engineering expertise and pilot training. He expressed confidence that the assets would significantly enhance security operations across Oyo State and neighbouring states once fully operational.

Speaking on behalf of the CAS, Air Vice Marshal Suleh conveyed the solidarity of the NAF with the Government and people of Oyo State and reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting ongoing efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted victims. He also commended the Oyo State Government for its continued support towards NAF projects and infrastructure development within the state.

He said the NAF remains committed to working closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property while supporting efforts to address security challenges across the country.