The Oyo State Government has placed an indefinite ban on all field trips and excursions by schools, citing growing security risks.

The move comes after gunmen attacked multiple schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. The affected schools include Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso. During the assault, teacher Michael Oyedokun was killed, while several students and staff were taken. An assistant headmaster and a motorcycle rider also lost their lives.

Dr. Nureni Adeniran, Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, had previously ordered primary schools in Surulere, Oyo East, Oriire, and Olorunsogo to shut down temporarily. He said the closure was meant to avoid further attacks and give security operatives room to secure the affected communities.

The incident has triggered wider safety actions in neighboring states. In Osun, Governor Ademola Adeleke directed the immediate strengthening of the Safe School Initiative and ordered increased surveillance around schools in border towns and isolated areas.

Oyo authorities have deployed police tactical teams, Amotekun operatives, local hunters, and vigilantes to track the attackers. Six persons suspected of aiding the gunmen are now in custody. Officials say the attackers are currently cornered in part of the Old Oyo National Park.

The Oyo State Police Command has cautioned the public against sharing false reports about the kidnapped pupils and teachers, confirming that rescue operations are still active and victims have not been freed.

The suspension of school trips is the latest step by the state to safeguard learners and teachers while security agencies tackle threats facing schools.