Oyo school abduction: MURIC demands urgent rescue as death toll allegedly rises

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Oyo State chapter of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has condemned the recent abduction incident at Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Oriire Local Government Area, calling for urgent action to rescue the remaining captives and strengthen security around vulnerable schools.

In a statement issued on Monday by the group’s State Secretary, Amb. Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, MURIC described the incident as “callous, wicked and barbaric,” alleging that the death toll linked to the abduction has risen to three.

According to the group, one teacher and a commercial motorcyclist were reportedly killed during the abduction, while another abducted teacher was allegedly later killed in captivity.

MURIC also referenced a video allegedly released by the abductors, which it said exposed the “frightening level of brutality” being unleashed by criminal elements on innocent Nigerians.

The group said the attack highlights the worsening security situation across parts of the country, warning that schools and rural communities are increasingly becoming unsafe.

“Schools are no longer safe. Rural communities are under siege. Innocent citizens now live in fear while criminals continue to operate with audacity,” the statement read.

MURIC commiserated with the bereaved families, the management of Community High School, residents of Ahoro-Esinle, Oriire Local Government Area, and the Oyo State Government over what it described as a painful development.

The organisation noted that the abducted victims reportedly include pupils and teachers of different religious backgrounds, cautioning against giving the incident ethnic or religious interpretation.

“Criminality knows no religion. An attack on one innocent Nigerian is an attack on all,” the group stated.

While acknowledging efforts by the Oyo State Government and security agencies, including reports of arrests linked to the incident, MURIC said authorities must go beyond routine assurances.

The group also sympathised with security operatives, including members of the **** and local vigilantes, who reportedly lost their lives during rescue operations after encountering suspected Improvised Explosive Devices allegedly planted by the abductors.

MURIC called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, Police, Amotekun Corps, and other security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and surveillance operations to ensure the immediate rescue of the remaining captives.

It further demanded a comprehensive security audit of vulnerable schools and rural communities across Oyo State, warning that preventive action is needed to avert further attacks.

The group also urged communities to expose informants and local collaborators allegedly aiding kidnappers.

“Nigeria cannot continue like this. Citizens deserve the right to live, learn, work and travel without fear of abduction or violent death,” the statement added.