The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo has directed churches across the state to observe prayer and fasting on Wednesday for the release of students and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire LGA.
On Friday, bandits attacked three schools in the LGA and abducted about 46 people, including students, seven teachers, and a principal.
During the attack, the bandits killed an assistant head teacher and a commercial motorcyclist at Community High School, one of the three schools attacked.
The two other schools affected are Baptist Nursery and Primary School and LA School Esinele, all located within the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele axis of Oriire.
NAN reports that Elisha Ogundiya, chairman of CAN in Oyo, said in a statement that the Christian community in the state is deeply saddened and disturbed by the attack.
“We condemn this act in the strongest terms. Schools must remain safe spaces for learning, not hunting grounds for criminals,” the statement reads.
“The trauma inflicted on these children, their teachers and their families is immeasurable.”
Ogundiya directed all churches in the state to observe prayer and fasting on Wednesday and break the fast at 6pm.
“Prayer points include the release of those abducted, divine protection for the state, and repentance for the perpetrators,” he said.
“We continue to pray for the safe return of these abductees and for the exposure and defeat of those behind this evil act.”
While acknowledging steps already taken by the state government and security agencies, the Oyo CAN chairman urged authorities to fast-track the immediate release of the abducted individuals.
He also advised the government to strengthen security in vulnerable rural areas, investigate and prosecute the perpetrators, and implement school safety protocols.
He added that concrete measures should be put in place to prevent a recurrence, including community-based security frameworks and improved school safety mechanisms.
The CAN chairman urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide useful information that could aid rescue operations.
Read Also Oyo Abductions Show South-West Must Prepare To Address Insecurity — Gani Adams
