Abiodun Urges Prayers for Kidnap Victims, Assures Families of Tinubu’s Rescue Efforts

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has called on Nigerians to remember victims of insecurity in their prayers, expressing solidarity with families affected by recent attacks and kidnappings across the country.

The governor made the appeal on Friday while addressing attendees at the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

During his speech, Abiodun extended his condolences to families who have lost loved ones to violence and banditry, while also offering words of encouragement to those whose relatives remain in captivity.

He paid particular attention to victims of the recent school abductions in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, assuring affected families that the Federal Government was actively working to secure their release.

According to the governor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted children and teachers, adding that security agencies are continuing efforts to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Abiodun's remarks come amid heightened public concern following a series of attacks on schools and communities in Oyo and Borno states.

On May 15, armed attackers reportedly invaded communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting pupils, teachers, and school administrators. The incident also resulted in the death of a teacher, while reports later indicated that another abducted teacher was killed while in captivity.

The attack sparked protests in Ogbomoso, where teachers suspended classroom activities and staged peaceful demonstrations demanding urgent action from authorities to secure the release of those still being held.

A similar incident was reported in Borno State, where suspected bandits allegedly abducted pupils from schools in Askira-Uba Local Government Area, further raising concerns about the safety of educational institutions in vulnerable regions.

Reacting to the growing insecurity, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) condemned the attacks, describing them as inhumane and warning that continued assaults on schools could negatively affect education and teacher welfare nationwide.

President Tinubu had earlier addressed the issue in his Children's Day message, reassuring abducted pupils and teachers that they had not been forgotten. He pledged to intensify rescue operations and directed security agencies to sustain coordinated efforts aimed at securing their freedom.

The President also announced plans to strengthen the Safe Schools initiative in collaboration with state governments, focusing on improving emergency preparedness, security coordination, and protection measures for schools located in high-risk areas.

In addition, Tinubu reiterated his support for the establishment of state police as part of broader efforts to enhance security across the country and called on the National Assembly to accelerate legislative action on the proposal.

Governor Abiodun urged Nigerians to remain united in prayer and support for victims of insecurity while expressing confidence that ongoing efforts would lead to the safe return of those still in captivity.