Teachers and civil society groups in Oyo State on Friday staged a peaceful but passionate protest in the state capital, demanding urgent government intervention to rescue teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.

The protest, organised by the Oyo State Teachers Action Group in partnership with the Nigeria Teachers Congress (NTC), highlighted growing fears over the safety of schoolchildren and educators in the state.

The abducted victims were taken on May 15, 2026, from Esiele and Yawota communities in Ogbomoso, sparking outrage across the state.

Addressing the demonstrators, Reverend Bunmi Thomas, NTC National President, said the protest was lawful and intended to pressure the government into swift action.

“We are standing with the families of the kidnapped teachers and pupils. Our demand is simple: secure their release immediately and attach security to all government schools. We cannot continue to teach in fear,” Thomas said.

He added that the protest was not against Governor Seyi Makinde, whom he praised for his performance, but stressed the need for continuous updates on rescue efforts.

Responding to the protest, Sunday Odukoya, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, assured participants that the government was actively working to free the abducted teachers and pupils.

“It is your constitutional right to protest and draw attention to this grave matter. Governor Makinde has been personally involved in the rescue operation since the abductions occurred,” Odukoya said.

He also warned that sensitive operational details could not be disclosed publicly to avoid jeopardising ongoing efforts, but reassured teachers that no participant in the protest would face harassment or victimisation.

Despite the assurances, the protesters called for greater urgency, highlighting the trauma faced by the victims in captivity.

“We are appealing to the government’s moral conscience. Our teachers and pupils must be returned safely. This is not a political statement, but a humanitarian call,” the Oyo State Teachers Action Group said.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Rasidi Ladoja, has made it clear that the antecedents and popularity of politicians aspiring to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election will determine their victory, not the mere invocation of his name.

Speaking with journalists at his Bodija residence after leading prayers for Eid-el-Kabir, Oba Ladoja noted that many aspirants had been campaigning using his name.

However, he stressed that the final choice rests with the people.

“Let them use my name to promote themselves if it is meaningful to them. But at the end of the day, it is the people who will decide who rules them, not my name,” he said, describing all politicians in the state as his children.

The monarch also expressed deep concern over the abduction of 39 pupils and teachers in communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

He assured that security agencies and government officials were working behind the scenes to secure their release.

“Government and security agencies are doing their best. It’s just that they cannot reveal their operations for security reasons,” Oba Ladoja added.

On the issue of land disputes, the Olubadan warned that land grabbing in Ibadanland will no longer be tolerated. He urged residents to respect traditional laws and desist from illegal acquisition of land.

As Muslims across Nigeria and the world celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, Hon. Aderemi Oseni, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, has urged Nigerians to exercise heightened community vigilance.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker, who also chairs the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), tasked security operatives at all levels to ensure peace and safety during the festive period.

Oseni, who has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Oyo South Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, noted that Eid is a time for joy, spiritual reflection, and renewal.

The federal lawmaker added that the period is also an opportunity to recognize the critical role of security personnel in protecting lives, property, and public spaces.

“Eid-ul-Adha reminds us that peace and security are shared responsibilities,” the statement read.

“As we celebrate with our families and loved ones, let us remain vigilant and supportive of the men and women in uniform, whose courage, dedication, and professionalism make it possible for citizens to enjoy this festive season safely.”

Oseni commended security agencies across Oyo State and Nigeria, noting their unwavering commitment, discipline, and resilience, often under challenging conditions. He further urged citizens to partner with security operatives, report suspicious activities, and strengthen neighborhood cohesion, emphasizing that national security is a collective responsibility that transcends political, local, or individual interests.

The APC chieftain also highlighted the importance of responsible citizenship, calling on Nigerians to reflect the values of compassion, integrity, and communal solidarity that the Eid festival embodies.

“Our collective vigilance, cooperation, and commitment to the common good are what sustain peace and foster sustainable development,” he added.

The legislator extended warm Eid-ul-Adha greetings to all Nigerians, praying that the season brings joy, unity, and renewed hope for peace across the nation.