Parents and families of pupils and teachers abducted by gunmen in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly rejected rice and cash offered by government officials, insisting that their only concern is the safe return of their loved ones.
The development was disclosed by the Baale of Yawota community, Emmanuel Alade, who said government representatives visited the affected communities with relief materials and financial assistance, but the parents turned down the gesture.
According to Alade, the parents told officials that they did not want money or food items and instead wanted urgent action to secure the release of the abducted children and teachers.
The abduction occurred after armed men attacked schools in the Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota axis of Oriire LGA, kidnapping dozens of pupils and teachers. Reports indicate that about 46 victims, including children as young as two years old, were taken during the attacks, while at least one teacher was killed.
A federal delegation led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, recently visited the affected communities to express the Federal Government’s concern and reassure residents that security agencies were working to rescue the victims.
Despite the visit, frustration remains high among residents, many of whom believe that humanitarian assistance cannot replace the urgent need to bring the abducted children home safely.
The incident has triggered protests by teachers, students, civil society groups, and public figures across Nigeria, with many using the hashtag #BringBackOurStudents to demand stronger action against insecurity and school kidnappings.
Security agencies say rescue operations are ongoing, while both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government have assured families that efforts are being intensified to secure the release of the victims.
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