The Oyo State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has strongly condemned the abduction of pupils, students, and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing it as a brutal assault on education and communal harmony. In a statement issued Tuesday by chapter President Okechukwu Nwabunike and Executive Secretary Promise Aja, the group expressed grief over the attacks in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele, saying they targeted innocent children and educators working toward national progress.
Ohanaeze also decried the killing of mathematics teacher Mr. Michael Oyedokun, which Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed after a video of the incident circulated online. The group labeled the murder a heinous act that reflects the ruthlessness of the abductors and said the incident was a direct strike against peace, learning, and social stability. It extended condolences to the slain teacher’s family, the victims’ relatives, and to security personnel, including soldiers, Amotekun members, and local vigilantes, who lost their lives during rescue operations.
The group threw its support behind Makinde’s administration, noting its ongoing efforts to safeguard lives across the state. It called for urgent measures such as stronger community security networks and improved safety in schools to prevent a recurrence. Ohanaeze urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by sharing reliable information, avoid spreading sensitive details that could hinder operations, and said Igbo communities in the South-West should stand with their host communities through prayers and support. It concluded by urging security forces to use every available resource to rescue the captives and ensure the perpetrators face justice.
