The Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́ Pivotal Club, Lagos, has expressed deep concern over the abduction of students and teachers in Ahoro Ẹ̀sínẹ̀lẹ̀ and Yáwọ́ta communities in Oríire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The group in a statement issued Monday by its President, Joel Ọ̀wọ́adé, and General Secretary, Gbìtẹ́ Adégòkè described the incident as a painful development that has plunged families and residents into grief and uncertainty.
It condemned condemned the kidnapping in strong terms and called for intensified efforts to secure the safe and immediate release of the victims.
The group stressed that the abduction had not only affected the immediate families of those held captive but had also cast a shadow over Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́land, Oyo State and the country at large.
It noted: “The Board of Trustees, EXCO and entire members of Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́ Pivotal Club Lagos hereby express our deepest security concerns that culminated in the painful abduction of students and teachers in Ahoro Ẹ̀sínẹ̀lẹ̀ and Yáwọ́ta in Oríire Local Government Area of Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́land.
“We condemn this dastardly act against hapless captives in the strongest term with attendant sorrow and despair visited on their immediate families, Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́land, Oyo State and Nigeria.
“The continued captivity of the students and teachers has heightened anxiety among residents, particularly given the age and vulnerability of some of the victims.
“More repugnant is the lingering suspense occasioned by their continued hostage in the harshest condition unimaginable for children of their age.”
Security experts have repeatedly warned that attacks on educational institutions not only endanger lives but also threaten access to education, especially in vulnerable communities.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by government authorities and security agencies, the Club commended both the Federal and Oyo State governments for measures being taken to secure the release of the captives.
“While we appreciate and commend the efforts of the state and Federal Governments to ensure release of the captives, our prayers are with them for Divine intervention that will secure their immediate freedom,” the group saud.
The Club also urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and strengthen surveillance across vulnerable communities to prevent future occurrences.
The abduction has continued to generate concern among residents of Oríire Local Government Area and the wider Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́ community, with many calling for swift action to ensure the safe return of the victims and improve security across the region.