Not Rice Relief, Bring Back Our Abducted Children, ’ – Oriire Families Fumes

Not Rice Relief, Bring Back Our Abducted Children, ’ – Oriire Families Fumes

The Baale of Yawota Community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State has revealed that families of pupils, students and teachers abducted during a recent attack on schools in the area rejected relief items and cash donations offered by government representatives, insisting that their only concern is the safe return of their loved ones.

Speaking on the aftermath of the attack, the traditional ruler said residents remain traumatised by the incident, during which armed men stormed the community and kidnapped several schoolchildren and teachers.

According to him, the attackers operated freely while firing gunshots, creating panic across the area.

“They took away little children and continued shooting during the attack,” he said.

The monarch explained that community leaders immediately alerted security agencies after the assailants fled the area. He commended the Nigeria Police Force for responding quickly and visiting the community to assess the situation.

He further disclosed that government officials who later visited the affected families came with food items and financial support as part of efforts to sympathise with them, but the gesture was rejected.

“The parents rejected the rice and money. They said what they want is the safe release of their children,” he stated.

The Baale said another delegation, made up of women representing Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, also visited the community to console residents and provide assistance.

However, he noted that the families maintained the same position.

“They came with rice and money, but the parents rejected it, saying they only want their children released,” he added.

The abduction occurred on May 16 when gunmen attacked communities within the Ahoro-Esiele/Yawota axis of Ogbomoso, abducting pupils, students and teachers from multiple schools, including Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School.

The incident has intensified concerns over insecurity in the area, with residents and community leaders calling on security agencies and government authorities to accelerate efforts to secure the release of the victims and strengthen protection for schools and rural communities.