The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the abduction of pupils, teachers and school officials during coordinated attacks on schools in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The association warned that the rising wave of kidnappings and attacks on schools is gradually spreading insecurity into areas once seen as peaceful and safe.
In a statement issued by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the body described the daylight invasion of several schools by armed men as a disturbing sign that criminal violence is expanding beyond its former strongholds.
According to CAN, the attackers stormed schools in broad daylight, unleashed fear on residents, killed innocent people and forcefully took away students and teachers.
Archbishop Okoh stated that Nigeria risks normalising terror if criminal gangs and kidnapping networks are not urgently dismantled.
“When criminals begin targeting children inside classrooms, remaining silent becomes dangerous. The country must take firm action before more innocent lives are ruined,” he said.
CAN described the incident as more than an ordinary security breach, calling it a national embarrassment and evidence that organised violence is now creeping into regions previously considered relatively secure.
The association also mourned the reported killing of an assistant headmaster who allegedly tried to protect pupils during the attack, alongside other victims who lost their lives in the violence.
“The bravery and sacrifice shown during the attack must never be ignored. Those behind this crime must be tracked down, arrested and prosecuted immediately,” the statement added.
CAN further lamented that many Nigerians are becoming frustrated with repeated condolences and assurances from authorities without visible action to stop the growing insecurity.
The association warned that what initially appeared concentrated in parts of northern Nigeria is now spreading into the South-West and other regions, posing a major threat to national peace and public confidence.
It noted that disturbing images and reports from the affected communities, including emotional pleas from frightened teachers and grieving mothers, highlight the seriousness of the crisis.
“No parent deserves to watch helplessly while gunmen take their child away. No teacher should have to risk abduction or death simply for educating children,” CAN stated.
The Christian body urged the Federal Government, security agencies and the Oyo State Government to go beyond routine reactions and immediately intensify efforts to rescue the abducted victims and bring the attackers to justice.
CAN also stressed that school protection programmes must become active and effective rather than existing only in policy documents.
The association called for stronger security operations across rural communities, forests and suspected criminal hideouts to prevent further attacks.
It expressed solidarity with the affected families, churches, school communities and residents of Oriire Local Government Area while praying for the safe return of those abducted and comfort for grieving families.
