By Our Correspondent
A member of the House of Representatives representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency, Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji, has expressed profound concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as a tragic assault on the nation's future and a disturbing reminder of the security challenges confronting the country.
The schools affected by the incident include Community Grammar School, L.A. Primary School, Esiele, and Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, where pupils and teachers were reportedly kidnapped in circumstances that have generated widespread anxiety among parents, community leaders, and education stakeholders.
In a statement issued on her behalf by her Head of Digital Media and Communications, Asiwaju Saheed ỌLỌKỌ (ALSO), the federal lawmaker condemned the abduction in strong terms, stressing that attacks on educational institutions and innocent schoolchildren undermine national development and threaten the aspirations of future generations.
Describing the incident as "deeply painful and disturbing," Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji said the kidnapping of pupils and teachers constitutes a direct and serious threat to the nation's progress, noting that children remain the most valuable assets of any society.
She called for the immediate and unconditional release of all the victims, appealing to those responsible for the abduction to abandon violence and prioritize the safety and wellbeing of innocent citizens.
"The children who have been taken represent the very future of our nation. They are the future leaders, innovators, and builders we count on to shape a better Nigeria. We must not relent, and we will not rest until they are safely reunited with their families," she stated.
The lawmaker emphasized that every moment spent in captivity exposes the victims and their families to immense trauma, adding that urgent and coordinated efforts must be deployed to secure their safe rescue.
While reacting to the unfortunate development, Ayoola-Elegbeji also extended a message of caution to residents and indigenes of her constituency in Ogun State, urging them to remain vigilant amid growing security concerns across different parts of the country.
She specifically appealed to residents of Ikenne, Sagamu, and Remo North Federal Constituency to be security-conscious and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities and movements within their communities.
"We must all remain alert and observant. I urge everyone to promptly report any suspicious movements or unusual activities to the appropriate security agencies. Our collective vigilance is vital to supporting the efforts of our security operatives in safeguarding our communities," she said.
According to the lawmaker, community participation remains an indispensable component of effective security management, stressing that intelligence gathering from local residents often plays a critical role in preventing criminal activities and enhancing public safety.
Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji also commended security agencies for their dedication, professionalism, and continued efforts in protecting lives and property despite numerous operational challenges. However, she urged them to intensify ongoing rescue operations and maintain the momentum necessary to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers without delay.
She expressed confidence in the capacity of security operatives to bring the perpetrators to justice while ensuring the safe return of the victims to their families.
The lawmaker further called on Nigerians to unite in support of security agencies and continue praying for the safe rescue of the kidnapped pupils and teachers, stressing that national peace and security require collective responsibility and cooperation among citizens.
Drawing inspiration from the National Anthem's charge to build a nation where peace and justice reign, she noted that Nigeria's progress depends largely on the willingness of citizens and leaders alike to uphold justice, promote peace, and strengthen social cohesion.
As concern continues to mount over the safety of schools and educational institutions across the country, stakeholders have renewed calls for stronger security measures around schools, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to criminal attacks.
The incident in Oriire Local Government Area has once again brought national attention to the urgent need for enhanced protection of pupils, teachers, and learning environments, as well as sustained efforts to tackle insecurity across the country.
As families anxiously await positive news about their loved ones, Hon. Dr. Ayoola-Elegbeji reiterated her commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims and restoring confidence in the nation's educational system.
She concluded with a message of hope and solidarity, praying for wisdom for national leaders, strength for security personnel, and the safe return of all the abducted pupils and teachers.
"May wisdom guide our leaders, may unity strengthen our resolve, and may swift, decisive action bring our pupils and teachers home safely," she said.
