The prolonged captivity of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State has taken a more emotional turn, following the release of a video showing some of the victims pleading for government intervention through peaceful negotiations.
In the video circulating online, Mrs. Rachael F.O. Alamu, Principal of Community High School, Esiele, who was abducted alongside several pupils and colleagues, appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to prioritise dialogue in efforts to secure their release.
Visibly distressed, the principal urged authorities to avoid military operations that could further endanger the lives of those being held captive.
According to her, the abductors reportedly became more aggressive after noticing increased security activities in the area.
“We are appealing to the government to help us. Please do not use force. Our lives are at risk,” she said in the footage.
Another member of staff, who appeared in the video carrying an infant, described the difficult conditions faced by the hostages, particularly the young children who have remained in captivity for weeks.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The affected schools include Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele; L.A. Primary School, Esiele; and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School.
The attack shocked education stakeholders across the country and raised fresh concerns about the safety of schools in rural communities.
A mathematics teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed during the incident, while 39 pupils and seven members of staff were taken away by the armed attackers.
More than two weeks after the abduction, the victims remain in captivity despite ongoing rescue efforts by security agencies.
The Oyo State Government has maintained that every lawful option is being explored to ensure the safe return of the victims.
Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier indicated the state’s willingness to consider legitimate communication channels that could facilitate the release of the abducted children and teachers.
Security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force and the military, have since intensified operations in the area, deploying intelligence personnel, ground troops, and aerial surveillance resources.
Authorities, however, continue to caution the public against unverified reports, following the circulation of false claims suggesting that the victims had already been rescued.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from education stakeholders, labour unions, parents, and student groups.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have both demanded urgent action to secure the release of the victims while calling for stronger security measures to protect schools across the country.
Education advocates warn that the attack highlights the growing vulnerability of schools, particularly in rural communities, where inadequate security infrastructure continues to expose learners and educators to significant risks.
As anxiety grows among families awaiting the return of their loved ones, many Nigerians are now looking to government authorities and security agencies for a resolution that will bring the abducted pupils and teachers home safely.
The incident has once again reignited national conversations about school safety, the protection of learners, and the urgent need to safeguard educational institutions from the threat of insecurity.
