‘A NATIONAL DISGRACE’: OYO NDC GOV CANDIDATE DEMANDS URGENT ACTION AS TEACHERS, STUDENTS SPEND MONTH IN CAPTIVITY

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By ‘Sefiu Ajape

The 2027 governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Oyo State, Hon. (Dr.) Akim Adebola Yusuf, has called for urgent action over the continued abduction of teachers and students in the state, which has entered its 33rd day in captivity.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Yusuf described the situation as “painful,” “disturbing,” and “a national disgrace,” lamenting the prolonged suffering of the victims and their families.

“Today marks 33 painful days since innocent teachers and students from Oyo State were abducted and taken into captivity by armed bandits. Thirty-three agonizing days of uncertainty, fear, tears, and trauma for the victims, their families, colleagues, and indeed the entire people of Oyo State,” he said.

He expressed deep concern over the safety of educators and students, warning that continued insecurity poses a serious threat to the education sector and national development.

“Teachers are nation-builders. They dedicate their lives to shaping future generations. Students represent the hope of tomorrow,” he added.

The candidate urged security agencies, the Federal Government, and the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts toward securing the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted victims, calling for full deployment of intelligence and operational resources.

He also stressed the need for a stronger security framework in the state, proposing a “technology-driven, intelligence-led security architecture” that would enhance surveillance, community policing, and rapid response mechanisms.

Yusuf reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising security if elected governor in 2027, noting that no society can thrive where teachers and students are unsafe.

“The lives of our teachers and students matter. Their freedom cannot wait. Their rescue must be immediate,” he said.

Recall that on Friday, May 15, 2026, armed bandits invaded schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting teachers and students during the attack.

One teacher was reportedly killed in the incident, while several others were taken away into the bush by the assailants.

Since then, efforts by security agencies to secure the release of the victims have yet to yield results.