Armed attackers have abducted no fewer than 45 pupils during coordinated assaults on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, throwing several communities into fear and uncertainty. The affected schools include Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School.
According to eyewitness accounts, the gunmen stormed the communities around 8am on motorcycles, dressed in camouflage and speaking Yoruba, Hausa, and Pidgin English. They reportedly opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic among pupils, teachers, and residents. Consequently, many children fled through windows while others were forcefully taken away into nearby forests bordering the Old Oyo National Park axis.
A teacher, Elizabeth Olagoke, revealed that the assailants invaded classrooms and abducted several pupils alongside teachers. She added that the attackers also stole motorcycles and killed a motorcyclist during the operation. Meanwhile, traditional ruler Oba Tajudeen Abioye confirmed that at least 45 pupils were kidnapped, while security agencies intensified rescue efforts across suspected escape routes.
Furthermore, distraught parents described heartbreaking moments after discovering their children were missing. Some mothers explained that the kidnappers initially disguised themselves as security operatives, making residents believe protection had arrived. However, panic erupted shortly after gunshots echoed across the communities.
Security operatives have reportedly arrested three suspects linked to the attack, while investigations continue. Residents are now urging both the state and federal governments to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and restore confidence in rural community safety.a
