Rights Activists Protest in Ibadan, demand Rescue of Abducted Ogbomoso Schoolchildren, Teachers

Teachers and members of the civil society organisations (CSOs) on Friday protested in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, calling on the government to take urgent steps to rescue teachers and schoolchildren abducted in Oriire LGA. 

The victims were kidnapped on May 15 after gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso, all located in Oriire LGA.

At least 45 schoolchildren and teachers were abducted during the attack.

According to Channels TV, the protest was organised by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group in collaboration with the Nigeria Teachers Congress (NTC), a non-governmental organisation (NGO).

The demonstrators warned that the safety of teachers and schoolchildren across the state could no longer be ignored.

Bunmi Thomas, national president of the NTC, said the union joined the protest in solidarity with the victims and their families.

Thomas added that the demonstration was lawful and intended to pressure the government to intensify rescue efforts.

“When we heard about the proposed protest by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group, we were satisfied and decided to join them because what they are doing is lawful,” he said.

“They are demanding pragmatic action from the government to secure the release of the abducted teachers and students.

“If the government is trying and the desired result has not been achieved, then more efforts must be intensified. We want the government to do more to rescue the teachers and pupils.”

Thomas said that the protest was not directed against Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, or his administration.

“We have children as young as two and three years old in the bush. They are exposed to rain and harsh weather conditions. These victims are in danger, and nobody knows who could be next,” he said.

“We want the government to attach security personnel to all government schools. We cannot continue to work while living in danger.”

Sunday Odukoya, executive assistant on security matters to the governor of Oyo, told the demonstrators that the government is actively working to secure the release of the victims.

Odukoya said certain operational details could not be made public in order not to compromise ongoing rescue efforts.

“It is your constitutional right to protest and let the government know your concerns. This incident is unfortunate, but I want to assure you that the government is not folding its arms over the matter,” he said.

“Since this incident happened, Governor Seyi Makinde has been on top of the situation. I have personally visited the area several times, and both the traditional ruler in Esiele and residents of Yawota can attest to the government’s efforts.”