Teachers in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, on Monday suspended classroom activities and staged a peaceful protest to the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) office following the recent abduction of teachers and students in the state, an incident that tragically claimed the life of one teacher.
Carrying placards with various inscriptions, the protesters urged governments at all levels to strengthen security measures and intensify efforts to secure the safe release of those still being held captive by kidnappers.
The demonstration was triggered by the abduction that occurred in Oriire Local Government Area, a development that has sparked widespread concern among residents, education stakeholders, and community leaders across Oyo State. The protesting teachers also called for enhanced security around schools and safer learning environments for both students and staff.
Speaking after a security meeting in Ibadan on Sunday, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, confirmed that one of the abducted teachers had been killed by the assailants. According to the governor, seven teachers and an unspecified number of pupils were abducted during the attack.
Makinde disclosed that a video received by authorities indicated that the slain victim, believed to be a Mathematics teacher, was murdered by the kidnappers. He expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and assured residents that the government remained committed to rescuing the remaining victims.
The governor also sympathised with members of the rescue team — including soldiers, operatives of the Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and vigilantes — some of whom sustained injuries after encountering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) allegedly planted by the abductors during rescue operations.
He assured the public that the injured operatives were responding well to treatment and that the state government would fully cover their medical expenses.
Makinde stated that the government had intensified efforts to secure the release of the abductees, noting that both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies were being deployed to address the crisis.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that this challenge is brought under control and that the victims are safely returned to their families,” the governor said, while appealing for calm among residents, religious leaders, and community stakeholders amid rising tensions in the affected communities.
