The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has expressed concern over rising insecurity in the South-West, declaring that “Yorubaland is now under siege” following the abduction of pupils, students and school staff in Oyo State.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, the group also sympathised with the victims and families affected by the attacks.
According to Ajayi, the leader of Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti, expressed sadness over the incident, noting that it occurred during the same week he marked his 100th birthday anniversary.
“He sympathised with the victims and their families just as he prayed for the quick recovery of those who were injured,” Ajayi said.
The development followed widespread outrage after videos of abducted school officials and victims surfaced on social media, showing emotional appeals for rescue from captivity.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped after gunmen riding motorcycles attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community High School and L.A. Primary School around 9:30 a.m. on Friday.
The attackers allegedly abducted pupils, students and members of staff during the coordinated assault.
Police authorities also confirmed the killing of an Assistant Headmaster, Mr Adesiyan, during the incident. An unidentified commercial motorcyclist was also reportedly shot dead after resisting attempts by the gunmen to seize his motorcycle.
One of the videos circulating online featured the abducted principal of Community High School, Mrs Alamu, alongside a teacher at Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Temitope Mary Dahunsi.
In the footage, Mrs Alamu appealed to the federal and state governments, the Christian Association of Nigeria and other well-meaning Nigerians to intervene and facilitate their rescue.
