By Richard Benjamin
The abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State’s Oriire Local Government Area has triggered widespread concern, teacher strikes, and growing pressure on authorities to secure the release of the victims.
Armed gunmen reportedly abducted about 39 pupils and seven teachers during attacks on Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities on May 15.
In response to the incident, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) commenced an indefinite strike on June 1, shutting down public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State.
The union said concerns over teachers’ safety, growing anxiety among parents, and delays in securing the release of those abducted informed the decision.
Civil society groups, including student bodies and activist organizations, also staged protests in Ibadan, demanding stronger government action and improved security measures.
President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and authorized the deployment of additional security personnel as efforts to locate the victims continue.
A federal delegation led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila visited affected families in Ogbomoso on May 31, assuring them of continued rescue efforts and government support.
Governor Seyi Makinde has also pledged intensified efforts to secure the release of those abducted as security agencies continue search operations.
Families of the victims have continued to appeal for urgent intervention while authorities maintain that rescue operations remain ongoing.
