Armed Attack in Oyo State Abducts Dozens from Schools

Gunmen on motorcycles attacked three schools in the Ahoro-Esinele area of Oriire District near Ogbomoso on May 15. The targets included Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Esiele, and LA Primary School in Ogbomoso.

Nigerian police reported two deaths and the abduction of at least 45 students, one school principal, and seven teachers. Videos posted on social media on May 17 showed the principal and a teacher pleading for government intervention.

The governor of Oyo State stated that a mathematics teacher was killed while held by the kidnappers. Authorities arrested six people suspected of aiding the attackers and identified three additional persons of interest. Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo of Oyo State urged the faithful to pray for the hostages' release and for leaders to act decisively.

The governor linked the incident to pressure on Islamist groups in northeastern Nigeria, which has prompted some to move into southwestern regions. Nigerian army units have been sent to neighboring Benin to help contain similar threats. On May 19, teachers in Ogbomoso protested and halted classes, demanding stronger security measures at schools.