Oyo School Owners Cry Out for Better Security After Recent Abductions

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools has called for increased security presence around schools and vulnerable rural communities following the recent abduction of teachers, and students in Ahoro-Esinle Community and neighbouring areas of Ogbomoso ib Oyo State. The association made the call during a special prayer and intercession programme organised by private school proprietors across the five local government areas in the Ogbomoso axis on Tuesday. Speaking on behalf of the association in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the District Secretary, Olawale Ojewumi; the Public Relations Officer, Tope Olaniyan; and the District Chairperson, Bosede Ajala, said the disturbing wave of attacks on schools has created fear among parents, teachers and school owners. The PUNCH reports that the victims were abducted during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, in Oriire Local Government Area of the state on Friday around 9:30 a.m. However, the association on Tuesday said, “NAPPS wants to use this period to urge the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies to urgently strengthen security architecture around educational institutions, especially those located in rural and vulnerable communities. “Schools should remain safe environments for learning and not become targets for criminal elements. “We also call for the deployment of modern surveillance technology, improved intelligence gathering and rapid response mechanisms to prevent future attacks and ensure the swift rescue of abducted victims.” The association stressed that urgent and visible actions are needed to restore confidence in the safety of schools across Ogbomoso and other parts of the country. It further appealed to school proprietors, parents, religious leaders and other stakeholders to unite in prayers and advocacy for the protection of schools and communities. NAPPS said, “This is not the burden of one school alone. An attack on one school is an attack on all schools.” The association, therefore, prayed for the safe return of all abducted persons and comfort for families affected by the incident.