The Defence Headquarters says the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State is an isolated criminal act and does not indicate the existence of a permanent terrorist base in the South-West.
In a statement, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, extended condolences to the families of victims of the attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area and assured that the Armed Forces are intensifying operations to secure their release.
The military also dismissed media reports suggesting the presence of entrenched terrorist structures in the region, saying intelligence assessments and previous clearance operations in Old Oyo National Park do not support such claims.
The Defence Headquarters said troops are currently conducting ongoing search-and-rescue operations in coordination with other security agencies and local communities to locate the abducted victims and dismantle criminal networks.
It added that troops have already made contact with the suspects during operations and will continue sustained efforts until all victims are safely rescued.
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