FALANA DEMANDS RELEASE OF ABDUCTED OYO PUPILS, TEACHERS DURING JUNE 12 PROTEST
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has called for the immediate release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State, expressing concern over their welfare and the conditions under which they are being held.
Falana made the appeal while addressing demonstrators during a June 12 protest focused on insecurity, economic hardship, and the state of democracy in Nigeria.
According to him, the protest was organised not only to demand the safe return of the abducted victims but also to highlight broader challenges confronting the country, including insecurity, poverty, and alleged human rights abuses.
“We are protesting the kidnapping of our children in Oyo State. We are also protesting injustice in our country, where innocent schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states have remained in the custody of criminals for several weeks,” he said.
The senior lawyer also condemned what he described as the harassment and arbitrary arrest of young Nigerians by security operatives, particularly on highways across the country.
Falana lamented the worsening economic situation, insisting that Nigeria possesses sufficient human and natural resources to guarantee a better standard of living for its citizens.
He expressed concern over reports that the abducted pupils and teachers are enduring severe hardship in captivity.
“Those children are suffering. They have no medical attention and no adequate food. We demand the immediate release of those children and their teachers,” he stated.
Falana further alleged that one of the abducted teachers had been killed, describing the development as a disturbing attempt by the kidnappers to pressure authorities into accelerating efforts to secure the release of the remaining victims.
He urged the government to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of all those still in captivity.
Reflecting on the significance of June 12, Falana commended Nigerians who participated in the demonstration and argued that the country’s democratic journey remains unfinished.
“We want to thank everyone who came out to mark the June 12 anniversary. The struggle for genuine democracy in Nigeria must continue,” he said.
The activist also praised members of the media for their coverage of the protest and encouraged citizens to remain actively engaged in advocating for accountability, justice, and good governance.
The protest formed part of nationwide activities commemorating June 12, widely regarded as a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, while also drawing attention to pressing security and socio-economic concerns affecting citizens.
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