Oyo Abductions: Parents Turn Down Relief Items, Demand Rescue of Children
Families of kidnapped pupils and teachers insist government focus on rescue efforts instead of donations
Families of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State have reportedly rejected food items and cash brought by officials, saying their only concern is the safe return of their children.
Parents of pupils and teachers kidnapped in Oyo State have refused food and monetary support offered by government officials, insisting that rescuing the abducted victims remains their only priority.
The Baale of Yawota, Emmanuel Alade, disclosed this during an interview with News Central on Monday, while giving an account of the attack in Orire Local Government Area.
He said government representatives who visited the affected communities brought rice and cash as relief materials, but the offer was rejected by grieving families.
“When the government officials came, they came with rice and money, but the parents rejected it,” Alade said.
He added that the families made it clear they were not interested in any form of palliative support until their children are brought back safely.
“The women who came as part of Governor Seyi Makinde’s team brought rice and money, but the parents said they don’t want that. What they want is the return of their children,” he explained.
Alade also recounted how the attack happened, saying unknown armed men were seen moving through the area shortly before gunshots were heard.
“I was sitting here when I saw them pass, but I didn’t know them. Shortly after, we started hearing gunshots. People said bandits had entered the community and everyone ran,” he said.
He added that a resident who tried to confront the attackers was killed before the pupils were taken away.
Security agencies were later alerted and visited the community after the incident.
The abduction, which occurred more than two weeks ago, has continued to spark concern across the state, with both state and federal authorities stepping up rescue efforts.
Governor Seyi Makinde had met with families of the victims in Ahoro-Esiele, assuring them that security operations had been intensified to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
On the federal level, a delegation led by Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, also visited the affected communities on President Bola Tinubu’s directive, alongside top security officials.
The incident has deepened fears in border communities and renewed calls for stronger protection of schools in rural areas.
