Bandits Abduct Schoolchildren and Teachers in Oyo State, Several Reportedly Taken in Coordinated School Attack

Armed assailants have reportedly carried out a coordinated attack on schools located near Ogbomoso in Oyo State, abducting both pupils and teachers in a violent raid that has sparked widespread concern.

According to initial reports, the attackers invaded three schools on May 15, during which several teachers, including a principal identified as Rachael Alamu, were taken alongside schoolchildren.

Security sources confirmed that at least 18 primary school pupils and seven secondary school students were among those abducted, with victims reportedly as young as two years old. Some students were said to have escaped during the chaos, while others remain unaccounted for.

Efforts to secure the release of the abductees are ongoing, with combined operations reportedly involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, Amotekun operatives, and aerial surveillance support.

As of May 26, there have been no confirmed rescues, despite intensified search and rescue efforts in the affected areas.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have both condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable, while assuring that security agencies are working to rescue the victims safely.

Authorities have also cautioned against the circulation of distressing images and videos related to the incident, urging the public to avoid sharing content that could further traumatize families of the victims.

The incident has once again raised concerns over school security in parts of the country and renewed calls for stronger protection of educational institutions.