Oyo Abduction: Parents Reject Govt Rice, Cash, Demand Children’s Return — Monarch

The traditional ruler of Yawota community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, Emmanuel Alade, has disclosed that parents of schoolchildren abducted by gunmen rejected relief materials and cash donations brought by government officials, insisting that their children be rescued and returned home safely.

Speaking in a video interview published by News Central on Monday, the monarch recounted the events leading to the attack, describing how he observed unfamiliar individuals moving through the area shortly before gunmen invaded the community.

According to him, panic spread after gunshots were heard, forcing residents to flee for safety. He said one individual who attempted to approach the attackers was shot dead during the incident.

Alade explained that the assailants abducted several pupils and teachers while firing repeatedly, leaving residents terrified and helpless. He described the incident as a tragic experience that has plunged the community into grief and uncertainty.

The monarch revealed that government officials later visited the affected community with relief materials, including bags of rice and cash assistance. He said members of a delegation reportedly linked to the administration of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also met with families to offer condolences and support.

However, the gesture was rejected by many parents, who said material assistance could not replace their missing children. According to Alade, the parents maintained that their primary concern was the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

The attack occurred on May 15, 2026, when terrorists stormed three schools in the Esiele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities of Oriire Local Government Area. More than 40 pupils, students, and teachers were reportedly abducted during the coordinated assault.

The attackers also killed an assistant headmaster, identified as Adesiyan Adegboye. Another victim, mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed while in captivity.

The abduction has sparked widespread outrage across the country. In response, President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and directed security agencies to intensify rescue efforts.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Teachers has declared an indefinite strike and continued nationwide protests, demanding the immediate rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers.