Oyo School Abductions Deepen Fear As Communities Demand Answers
Silence Replaces Learning in Affected Schools
IN Esiele and other communities across Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, classrooms that were once filled with pupils have become symbols of fear and uncertainty following recent school abductions. Weeks after gunmen stormed three schools and whisked away pupils and teachers, normal academic activity has yet to return.
A Day That Began Like Any Other
On Friday 15 May, students arrived at school as usual, unaware of what awaited them. Armed men on motorcycles later invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Ahoro-Esinele, and L.A. Primary School in Esiele, throwing entire communities into chaos.
Within minutes, dozens of pupils and teachers were taken into the forest, leaving behind panic, confusion, and devastated families.
Fear Deepens After Fatality and Captivity Video
Hope among families was further shaken after reports emerged that a kidnapped mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed in captivity. The development intensified anxiety among relatives still waiting for the return of their loved ones.
A video later released from captivity showing Principal Rachael Alamu pleading for help reinforced fears about the condition of the abductees and the urgency of their rescue.
Teachers Down Tools Over Safety Concerns
The crisis has also disrupted education in the state, as members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) declared an indefinite strike over worsening insecurity and fear among educators.
The union said the situation had made it unsafe for teachers to continue normal duties, further deepening the education crisis in affected areas.
Parents Withdraw Children Amid Rising Insecurity
Across communities, many parents have withdrawn their children from school, insisting that safety must be restored before learning can resume. The abductions have reshaped daily life, turning routine school attendance into a source of anxiety.
Government Steps Up Response
Authorities, including the Oyo State Government and federal security agencies, have intensified search operations in surrounding forests. Governor Seyi Makinde and President Bola Tinubu have both assured families that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the abducted victims.
