Oyo private school proprietors seek tighter security, organise prayers

Central Voyage News May 20, 2026 (Last updated: May 20, 2026) 2 minutes read

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools has appealed for stronger security measures around schools and rural communities following the recent kidnapping of teachers and pupils in Ahoro-Esinle Community and nearby areas in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

The appeal was made during a special prayer and intercessory session organised on Tuesday by private school owners across the five local government areas within the Ogbomoso zone.

Addressing journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the association’s District Secretary, Olawale Ojewumi; Public Relations Officer, Tope Olaniyan; and District Chairperson, Bosede Ajala, said the recurring attacks on schools have heightened anxiety among parents, teachers and school proprietors.

The victims were reportedly abducted during simultaneous attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School; and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, at about 9:30 a.m. on Friday.

Speaking further, the association urged the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and security agencies to urgently reinforce security arrangements around schools, particularly those situated in remote and vulnerable communities.

“Educational institutions must remain secure centres for learning and should not be turned into targets for criminals.

“We are also calling for the deployment of advanced surveillance systems, improved intelligence gathering and faster emergency response strategies to avert future incidents and facilitate the rescue of those abducted,” the association stated.

NAPPS emphasised that immediate and visible steps are necessary to rebuild public confidence in the safety of schools in Ogbomoso and across the country.

The body also urged school owners, parents, religious leaders and other stakeholders to join forces in prayers and advocacy aimed at protecting schools and their host communities.

“This challenge should not be seen as affecting just one school. Any attack on a school is an attack on the entire education sector,” the association added.

The group also offered prayers for the safe release of the abducted victims and strength for their families during the difficult period