Fresh concerns have emerged over the fate of teachers, students and pupils abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after a new video surfaced showing the victims pleading for urgent intervention from the government.
In the video, the captives, who have spent nearly two weeks in captivity, appealed emotionally to Governor Seyi Makinde and relevant authorities to secure their release.
One of the female victims, speaking on behalf of the group, described the conditions in captivity as unbearable, saying both children and adults were suffering from harsh weather conditions.
“We are begging in the name of God. The rain and the sun are unbearable. Both the children and the elderly are here. Today marks the 13th day we have been here. Please help us regain our freedom. We don’t want any confrontation. Whatever they ask for, please give it to them,” she pleaded.
Another woman in the video directly appealed to Governor Makinde to negotiate with the abductors and ensure the safe return of all those held captive.
“We are appealing to Governor Seyi Makinde to help us. Please negotiate with these people and give them whatever they want. We are here with teachers and children. Please save our lives,” she said.
The latest video has intensified public concern over the abduction, which involved teachers, primary school pupils and students from communities in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area.
Meanwhile, teachers in Oyo State on Friday staged a peaceful protest in Ibadan, demanding immediate action to secure the release of the victims.
The protesters marched from Iwo Road towards the Oyo State Secretariat, carrying placards and calling on the state and federal governments, as well as security agencies, to intensify rescue efforts.
They expressed frustration over the continued captivity of their colleagues and pupils, warning that the prolonged ordeal was taking a heavy emotional toll on families and the education community.
Despite the emotional atmosphere, the protest remained peaceful, with participants moving through major roads without disrupting traffic.
Security operatives monitored the demonstration to maintain order and ensure the safety of participants.
The abduction has sparked widespread outrage across the state, with residents, labour groups and civil society organisations calling for urgent measures to rescue the victims and tackle the growing insecurity affecting schools and rural communities.
As pressure mounts on authorities, families of the abducted teachers and children continue to hope for a safe and swift reunion with their loved ones.
