Traditional Worshippers Hold Special Prayers at Olumo Rock for Safe Return of Abducted Oyo Pupils and Teachers

Traditional religious worshippers in Abeokuta, Ogun State, have conducted special spiritual rites and prayers at Olumo Rock and other sacred sites, seeking divine intervention for the safe release of more than 40 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State nearly three weeks ago.

The ceremony was led by Dr. Omolara Fashola-MacGregor, wife of the Olu of Orile-Ilawo, Oba Alexander Olusegun MacGregor. The event featured traditional prayers, libations, and invocations directed at ancestral spirits and deities revered within Yoruba traditional religion.

Participants, dressed in traditional attire, gathered to pray for the safe return of the victims and to call for justice against those responsible for the attack, which occurred in mid-May and reportedly claimed the life of an assistant headmaster.

Speaking during the gathering, Olori MacGregor expressed concern over the continued captivity of the pupils and teachers, describing the situation as deeply troubling.

“The cries of these innocent schoolchildren have reached the heavens,” she said. “We are calling upon the spirits of our ancestors and the deities of our land to intervene wherever these children are being held. May those responsible know no peace until every child and teacher is safely returned.”

The spiritual gathering also included prayers for the families of the abducted victims, as well as appeals for peace and security across affected communities.

The abduction of the pupils and teachers has continued to generate concern among Nigerians, with religious groups, community leaders, and civil society organisations joining calls for their immediate release.

As efforts by security agencies continue, the traditional worshippers said they remain hopeful that their prayers and spiritual supplications will contribute to the safe return of the captives and the restoration of peace to the affected communities.