By Richard Benjamin
Videos circulating on social media and allegedly linked to the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State have intensified public concern as calls grow for authorities to secure the release of those still missing.
The videos, which have circulated widely online, appear to show individuals believed to be among those abducted appealing for help and calling for negotiations.
Some clips also show adults making appeals on behalf of family members reportedly among those kidnapped.
The abductions occurred on May 15 when armed men attacked schools in the Ahoro Esinele/Yawota axis of Oriire Local Government Area, including Community High School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
Reports indicate that dozens of pupils and teachers were taken during the attacks.
The circulation of the videos has triggered protests in parts of Oyo State, with civil society groups, labour organizations, and residents demanding faster rescue efforts and stronger security measures.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) also commenced an indefinite strike, citing safety concerns and delays in securing the release of victims.
Hashtags related to the incident have continued trending across social media platforms as users call for increased government intervention.
Meanwhile, security agencies have urged caution regarding unverified footage.
Police authorities said some viral clips being shared online may be unrelated to the incident or may have originated outside Nigeria, urging the public to rely on verified updates.
Governor Seyi Makinde said security agencies are continuing rescue operations, while additional personnel and intelligence resources have reportedly been deployed.
Families of those abducted have continued to call for urgent action as search and rescue efforts remain ongoing.
