Oyo abduction: Parents reject govt’s rice, money, demand children’s return—Monarch

Parents of schoolchildren abducted in Oyo State have rejected relief materials and cash offered by government officials, insisting that their primary demand is the safe return of their children. The traditional ruler of Yawota in Oriire Local Government Area, Baale Emmanuel Alade, revealed this development.

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I was sitting here when I saw them pass by, but I don’t know them at all.

Baale Alade recounted the attack, stating he witnessed suspicious movements shortly before gunmen stormed the community. He described how the attackers abducted several pupils and teachers during the raid, emphasizing the fear and chaos that ensued. The monarch also confirmed that one person who attempted to confront the attackers was killed.

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Not quite long after, we started hearing gunshots. They said bandits had entered the community and everyone ran away. The person that went to see them was gunned down.

The abduction occurred on May 15 when terrorists attacked three schools in Esiele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities. Over 40 pupils, students, and teachers were taken, and at least two individuals, assistant headmaster Mr Adesiyan Adegboye and mathematics teacher Mr Michael Oyedokun, were killed. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, prompting calls for intensified efforts to secure the victims' release. President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State and directed a specialized security unit to aid rescue operations. However, the Nigeria Union of Teachers has declared an indefinite strike in Oyo State and organized protests nationwide.

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That was how the students were taken away. Little children were taken away while they kept shooting.