President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the reported killing of one of the teachers abducted during an attack on schools in Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the act as barbaric.

The President gave the condemnation in a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, while assuring residents that efforts were ongoing to rescue the remaining victims.

Bandits had invaded the Esiele community last Friday and abducted staff, students and pupils of Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.

According to the statement, security operatives have intensified efforts to rescue the victims and arrest those behind the attack, including suspected collaborators within the community.

Tinubu sympathised with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the state government and families of the victims over the incident.

“I am saddened by the reported killing of one of the teachers kidnapped by the gunmen who invaded the community. I sympathise with Governor Seyi Makinde and commend the steps he has taken on the matter. I sympathise with the families of the kidnapped victims,” the President said.

He stated that the Federal Government was collaborating with the Oyo State Government to ensure the safe return of all abducted victims.

Tinubu also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioners of Police in Oyo and Kwara states for deploying tactical and Intelligence Response Team personnel to the area.

“The IGP, following my instructions, is personally leading the tech-driven operation. We expect a breakthrough soon. The bandits and all their local collaborators will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law,” he added.

The President further stressed that the rising cases of kidnapping across the country underscored the need for state police, urging the National Assembly to fast-track legislation establishing state policing structures to strengthen security in underserved areas.