Concern is mounting over the fate of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in separate attacks in Oyo and Borno states, who have now spent 54 days in captivity under harsh forest conditions during the peak of the rainy season.
The victims include 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, and 42 pupils kidnapped by suspected insurgents from schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State around the same period. None has been freed.
Health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to heavy rainfall, poor shelter, inadequate food, and lack of medical care could expose the children to serious illnesses such as malaria, pneumonia, asthma, and other life-threatening infections if they are not rescued soon.
In Oyo, intelligence reports suggest the abductees are being held within the Old Oyo National Park, where security forces have intensified search-and-rescue operations. The Nigerian Army recently said the operation was making “tremendous progress,” while the Oyo State Police expressed optimism that the victims would be rescued safely.
Meanwhile, parents, teachers’ unions, civil society groups, and human rights organizations have continued to press the Federal Government and security agencies to secure the children’s release, warning that the prolonged captivity highlights the country’s persistent school security challenges
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