Oyo school reopens, but fear lingers over security gaps after abduction

Academic activities have resumed at Community High School in Oriire, Oyo State, Nigeria, after pupils and teachers were freed from a 56-day abduction. However, a teacher speaking anonymously revealed that fear persists among students and staff due to the absence of visible security around the school.

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The teachers, the principals, everybody were around. But unfortunately, we could only meet about half of the students.

While the return of the victims has boosted confidence, leading to improved attendance and the resumption of examinations like the NECO English Language, the teacher admitted that many colleagues are still traumatized. Discussions about the abduction can still trigger panic among staff members.

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We’ll give glory to God. On Friday, God did it. And we were able to come back to school on Monday.

The teacher urged the government to enhance security in rural schools, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty many educators feel about their safety. The school is working to encourage students to return, leveraging the presence of the rescued individuals to restore a sense of normalcy, but the underlying fear remains a significant concern.

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When we were in school already, we were able to encourage the students to come in because the students and the teachers that were kidnapped, they are already in town. So, that will give them the boldness to come around.