A child rights advocacy group, Child Protection Network, has expressed concern over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers kidnapped in Oyo State, saying the victims are still missing nearly two weeks after the attack.
In a statement released to mark Children’s Day, the group’s coordinator, Olakunle Sanni, called on security agencies and the government to urgently secure the release of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers.
The victims were kidnapped on May 15, 2026, during attacks on communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, including Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota.
Around the same period, another school attack reportedly occurred in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, where several pupils were also abducted.
Reports indicated that more than 40 children were taken during the separate incidents in both states.
The rights group described the attacks as painful evidence of the worsening insecurity affecting schools and children across Nigeria.
Sanni said it was heartbreaking that children should still be in the hands of kidnappers at a time meant to celebrate and protect them.
He added that the incidents show how terrorism and violent attacks continue to threaten education and the safety of young Nigerians.
The organisation also confirmed reports that one of the kidnapped teachers in Oyo State, identified as Michael Oyedokun, was allegedly killed by the attackers.
According to the group, some of the abducted children are as young as two and three years old, making the situation even more disturbing.
The Child Protection Network urged authorities to strengthen security around schools and take urgent action to prevent more attacks on pupils and teachers in different parts of the country.