The Guide of Online Media Editors and Publishers (GOMEP) strongly condemns the horrifying abduction of over 40 pupils, students, and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, alongside the gruesome killing and reported beheading of one of the teachers by the kidnappers.
This barbaric act is not only an attack on innocent Nigerians but a direct assault on education, humanity, and the collective conscience of the nation. It is painful and deeply disturbing that children who should be in classrooms learning for a better future are now trapped in fear and uncertainty at the hands of criminals.
GOMEP expresses grave concern over the worsening state of insecurity across the country, especially the growing trend of attacks on schools and rural communities. The latest incident in Oyo State once again exposes the dangerous security gaps that continue to leave citizens vulnerable.
We condemn in strong terms the brutal murder of the teacher whose life was cut short in such a cruel and inhuman manner. Such evil actions have no place in any civilized society and must never be allowed to become normalized in Nigeria.
The Government at all levels, security agencies, and relevant authorities must rise beyond mere condemnations and take immediate decisive action.
Nigerians are tired of repeated stories of abductions, killings, and bloodshed without concrete and lasting solutions.
GOMEP therefore calls on the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, the Nigerian Army, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Civil Defence, and all relevant security agencies to ensure the immediate, safe, and unconditional rescue of all the abducted pupils, students, and teachers still in captivity.
The lives of these innocent children and educators must not be subjected to negotiations, politics, or delays. Every available security and intelligence resource should be deployed urgently to secure their freedom and bring the perpetrators to justice.
We also urge government authorities to strengthen security around schools, especially in rural communities, to prevent further attacks on educational institutions. Schools must remain safe environments for learning and development, not targets for terrorists and criminal gangs.
GOMEP further calls on community leaders, traditional rulers, religious bodies, civil society groups, and citizens to support efforts aimed at tackling insecurity and protecting vulnerable communities across the country.
Nigeria cannot continue to lose innocent lives while criminals operate freely. The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, and this responsibility must be carried out with urgency, seriousness, and accountability.
Signed:
Tochukwu Eluwa
National Publicity- Secretary
Guide of Online Media Editors and Publishers (GOMEP)
20/5/2026
About The Author
