Thousands of residents, teachers, labour activists and concerned citizens on Monday staged a protest near the Oyo State Secretariat in Ibadan, demanding urgent action over the continued captivity of teachers and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area.
The victims, aged between two and sixteen years, were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on schools in the Oriire area on May 15. Among those abducted were school principals, Mrs. Folawe Alamu and Mr. Jonathan Ojo.
The incident became even more tragic following the killing of a teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, who was reportedly murdered by the attackers.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Government Must Act: End Kidnapping” and “Bring Back Our Teachers and Pupils,” protesters called on both the state and federal governments to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the remaining victims.
The demonstration coincided with an ongoing industrial action by teachers, while solidarity marches were also reported in parts of neighbouring states, including Abeokuta.
Speaking on the situation, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde assured residents that the government was working closely with security agencies and would deploy every available option, including military operations and negotiations, to secure the victims’ freedom.
A federal government delegation also visited the state to assess the situation and support ongoing rescue efforts.
Despite these interventions, no victim has been released as of the latest reports, while security operations continue in and around the Old Oyo National Park area, where authorities believe some of the abductees may be held.
Families of the victims have continued to appeal for swift action, expressing concern over the prolonged captivity of their loved ones.
