As a measure to stop gunmen attacks on public and private schools after the Oyo schoolchildren and teachers’ rescue, the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria has demanded that the Federal Government, state governments and security agencies to strengthen security around schools across the country.
The Islamic organisation, while expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah over the safe return of the victims after 56 days in their abductors’ den, said the development should serve as a renewed wake-up call for authorities to intensify efforts aimed at protecting educational institutions from recurring attacks by kidnappers and other criminal elements.
In a statement issued on behalf of Ansar-Ud-Deen led by its national President, Adeniji Kazeem, on Tuesday, the Society described the release of the Oyo pupils and their teachers as “a moment of great joy for the nation” after weeks of anxiety, prayers and hope by their families and Nigerians.
The Society, in the statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Sola Hassan, congratulated the victims’ families, their schools and all Nigerians who stood in solidarity throughout the ordeal, while offering prayers for the full physical, emotional and psychological recovery of those rescued.
“We pray that Almighty Allah grants them complete physical, emotional and psychological healing from the traumatic experience they endured,” the statement said.
Ansar-Ud-Deen also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces, security and intelligence agencies, and other personnel involved in the operation that secured the victims’ freedom, commending what it described as their professionalism, courage and resilience.
According to the Society, the commitment and sacrifices of the security operatives in ensuring the safe release of the victims deserve national recognition and appreciation. It also acknowledged the contributions of individuals and organisations whose lawful collaboration helped achieve the successful outcome.
Despite celebrating the rescue, the organisation expressed concern over the growing pattern of kidnappings and attacks targeting schools, warning that such incidents continue to threaten access to education and undermine public confidence in the nation’s security.
It stressed that schools must remain safe environments where children can learn without fear, rather than becoming targets for criminal activities.
The Society urged governments at all levels to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve surveillance around schools and ensure that those responsible for attacks on educational institutions are apprehended and prosecuted.
It further called for increased investment in school security infrastructure, community policing initiatives and effective early warning systems, particularly in vulnerable communities where the risk of attacks remains high.
“The safety of every Nigerian child must remain a national priority,” the statement emphasized.
Ansar-Ud-Deen also appealed to members of the public to respect the privacy of the rescued pupils and teachers as they reunite with their families, urging Nigerians to support their rehabilitation and reintegration into normal life after the traumatic experience.