Academic activities were disrupted in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, on Monday as teachers staged a peaceful protest over the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, which led to the death of one teacher.
The protesters marched to the TESCOM office carrying placards with different messages demanding urgent action from authorities to secure the release of victims still being held by kidnappers.
The demonstration followed the recent attack on schools in Oriire, an incident that has sparked growing concern among residents, parents and education stakeholders across the state.
The teachers also called for tighter security around schools and safer environments for both learners and education workers.
Speaking after a security meeting on Sunday, Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed that one of the abducted teachers had been killed while others remained in captivity.
According to the governor, seven teachers and an undisclosed number of pupils were taken away during the attack.
Makinde disclosed that the deceased victim was believed to be a Mathematics teacher, describing the killing as tragic and heartbreaking.
He expressed sympathy to the family of the slain teacher and assured residents that the government was intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining abductees.
The governor also commended members of the rescue team, including soldiers, Amotekun operatives and local vigilantes, who reportedly encountered Improvised Explosive Devices planted by the kidnappers during rescue operations.
Makinde revealed that some security personnel were injured during the operation but were responding well to treatment.
He assured that the state government would cover all medical expenses of the injured operatives.
According to him, both military and non-violent strategies are being deployed to ensure the safe release of those still in captivity.
“We have reviewed the security situation surrounding the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in the local government area. I want to assure affected families that the government is working tirelessly to address the situation,” he said.
The governor added that wounded soldiers, hunters and other operatives involved in the rescue mission were recovering steadily.
Makinde also appealed to residents, community leaders and religious groups to remain calm, assuring them that the government remains fully committed to bringing the abducted victims home safely.
