A Muslim group on Tuesday condemned the recent kidnapping of school children and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area (LGA) of Oyo State.
The group, under the auspices of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), also condemned the killing of one of the teachers by the terrorists.
MUSWEN, in a statement issued and signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and Executive Secretary, Prof. Wole Abbas, expressed deep sorrow over the abductions.
It described the incident as “a barbaric act that targeted the future of the region and the nation.”
The group particularly condemned the reported killing of one of the kidnapped teachers, Mr Michael Oyedokun, whose death was confirmed by Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, following the circulation of a disturbing video.
“MUSWEN is deeply pained by this heinous crime against innocent children and dedicated educators.
“Kidnapping for ransom and the cold-blooded murder of a teacher in the course of performing his duties represent the height of inhumanity and a direct assault on the educational foundation of our society.
“We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and the entire people of Oyo State at this difficult time,” it said.
The group called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
It urged the federal and state governments to adopt a more proactive and holistic approach to tackling insecurity, including improved intelligence gathering, community policing, and addressing underlying socio-economic factors fueling banditry.
MUSWEN also appealed to residents of the affected communities and the general public to provide useful information to security operatives while maintaining calm and avoiding actions that could jeopardise rescue operations.
The organisation prayed for the repose of the soul of the slain teacher and for the safe return of all abducted pupils and staff.
It further called on Muslim communities across the South West to support affected families through prayers and any material assistance possible.
It reiterated its commitment to partnering with all stakeholders in the fight against insecurity, emphasising that the safety of schools and learners must remain a top national priority.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that terrorists, on Friday, attacked three schools in Oriire LGA of Oyo State, where scores of students and teachers were kidnapped, while two persons were killed.
