Residents of Yawata, Alausa, and Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly abandoned their homes following a deadly abduction raid that left dozens of pupils, teachers, and residents in the hands of kidnappers.
According to reports, more than two weeks after armed men attacked schools and surrounding communities in the area, fear and uncertainty have forced many residents to flee, turning the once bustling villages into near deserted settlements. When journalists visited the communities, many houses were found locked, while security personnel had been deployed to strategic locations, including schools affected by the attack.
The raid occurred on May 15 when gunmen invaded communities in Oriire Local Government Area, targeting schools in Yawata and Esinele. During the attack, a teacher, Joel Adesiyan, was killed, while dozens of pupils, teachers, and other residents were abducted. Reports later indicated that another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed while in captivity.
Parents of the abducted children have expressed anguish over the prolonged captivity of their loved ones, describing the situation as traumatic and frustrating. Some residents said the continued detention of the victims and the circulation of disturbing videos allegedly showing the captives have deepened fears within the affected communities.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from community leaders and traditional rulers. The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, described the assault as barbaric and extended condolences to families who lost relatives or had family members abducted. He also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans to stage a solidarity and advocacy rally in Oyo State, calling for urgent action to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers. The association described the continued captivity of the victims as unacceptable and urged authorities to strengthen rescue operations.
Security agencies, including local vigilante groups and the Oyo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, have continued search-and-rescue efforts in forests and neighbouring communities. State officials have assured residents that coordinated operations remain ongoing to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.
The incident has heightened concerns over insecurity in rural communities across Oyo State and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect schools and residents from armed attacks
