The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the recent abduction of pupils, teachers, and school officials in coordinated attacks on schools in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as a “national disgrace” and a troubling sign of worsening insecurity in the South-West.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, CAN President Daniel Okoh said armed attackers invaded multiple schools in broad daylight, killing residents and whisking away dozens of children and educators. He said the attack reflects a disturbing breakdown of security and exposes how vulnerable educational institutions have become across the country.
Okoh lamented that children can no longer safely learn in classrooms without fear of kidnapping, warning that the situation represents not just a local tragedy but a national crisis demanding urgent action. He noted that the repeated targeting of schools shows the growing spread of organised criminal networks into areas previously regarded as relatively safe.
CAN also confirmed reports that an assistant headmaster was killed while attempting to protect pupils during the attack, describing him and other victims as heroes whose sacrifice must not be forgotten. The association called for swift identification, arrest, and prosecution of all those responsible.
The Christian body further expressed concern over what it described as increasing public frustration, saying Nigerians are becoming weary of repeated condolences without concrete security improvements. It warned that failure to dismantle kidnapping gangs and armed groups is gradually normalising violence across the country.
The association urged the Federal Government, security agencies, and the Oyo State Government to immediately intensify rescue operations to secure the safe release of the abducted victims. It also called for strengthened security around schools, rural communities, forest routes, and suspected criminal hideouts.
CAN stressed that urgent, coordinated action is needed to prevent further attacks, warning that continued silence or delay could embolden criminal networks and endanger more lives. It also expressed solidarity with affected families and communities, while praying for the safe return of all abducted victims.
