The Oyo State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has condemned the recent abduction of pupils, students, and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the attack as a grave assault on education, humanity, and peaceful coexistence.
In a statement jointly signed by the chapter’s President, Okechukwu Nwabunike, and Executive Secretary, Promise Aja, the socio-cultural organisation expressed deep sorrow over the incident and sympathised with affected families, school communities, and residents of the state.
The group described the attack on the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities as barbaric and heartbreaking, noting that the victims were innocent children and educators committed to learning and national development.
Ohanaeze also condemned the reported killing of a mathematics teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, whose death was confirmed by Governor Seyi Makinde after a video linked to the incident surfaced online.
According to the organisation, the murder reflects the brutal nature of the abductors and underscores the growing security concerns facing communities and educational institutions.
The group said it stands in solidarity with the victims’ families and urged Nigerians to pray for the safe return of those still in captivity.
It also extended condolences to the families of security personnel, including soldiers, Amotekun operatives, and local vigilantes reportedly killed during rescue operations.
Throwing its support behind the administration of Governor Makinde, the organisation stated that the governor has continued to demonstrate commitment toward protecting lives and maintaining security across Oyo State.
Ohanaeze noted that the state had not previously experienced such a devastating school-related attack and called for urgent measures to strengthen school safety and community-based security structures.
The group further appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence capable of supporting ongoing rescue efforts.
It also cautioned against spreading sensitive information capable of undermining security operations, stressing that vigilance and public cooperation remain vital in addressing insecurity.
The organisation urged security agencies to deploy every available resource toward rescuing the abductees and ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
Ohanaeze added that defeating insecurity would require collective national resolve, unity, and sustained collaboration among citizens, communities, and security institutions.
Reporting By Niran Odufayo