In Oyo State, families of abducted pupils and teachers have rejected food items and cash offered by government officials, maintaining that their only concern is the safe return of those taken.
The Baale of Yawota, Emmanuel Alade, said community members refused rice and money brought during a condolence visit, stressing that material support did not address their situation.
According to him, the delegation that visited the area came with relief supplies, but the gesture was declined by parents who demanded concrete action to secure the release of the victims.
He explained that tension in the community followed an armed attack in the Orire Local Government Area, during which unidentified gunmen entered the area, opened fire, and abducted schoolchildren.
Alade said the incident unfolded quickly, adding that residents fled after gunshots were heard and the attackers moved through the community. He also confirmed that a person who attempted to confront the attackers was killed during the assault.
Community members later reported the incident to security operatives, who visited the area afterward.
The abduction has triggered multiple government responses at both state and federal levels.
Governor Seyi Makinde met with families of the abducted pupils and staff in Ahoro-Esiele, assuring them that security agencies were actively working to secure their release.
At the federal level, a delegation led by Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila visited Esiele and Yawota communities on the directive of President Bola Tinubu. The team also included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu, and Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa. They assured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to locate and rescue the abducted students and teachers.
The incident, which occurred more than two weeks ago, has intensified concern across border communities in Oyo State, where residents continue to call for improved security presence and a clear timeline for the victims’ return.
