The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts to secure the rescue of students and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, lamenting that they have now spent 55 days in captivity.
The association described the victims’ prolonged captivity as “traumatic and tragic,” urging the authorities to act swiftly to ensure their safe return.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, Akinteye Afeez, NANS acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies since the abduction but insisted that more must be done to rescue the victims.
“As the apex leadership of Nigerian students, we have, since this tragic abduction, continued to speak out for the immediate rescue and safe return of our fellow students and our teachers,” the statement read.
NANS said it had engaged the Oyo State Government, visited the scene of the incident, sympathised with the affected families and communities, and explored ways to complement ongoing security efforts aimed at securing the victims’ release and preventing similar incidents.
The association said the continued captivity of the students and teachers underscores the persistent security challenges facing the country.
“Silence at this critical crossroads is cruelty, evil and complicity. We therefore call on the Government and all relevant authorities, including the security agencies, to act decisively and intensify efforts to secure the immediate rescue and safe return of the abducted students and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State and in other parts of Nigeria,” it said.
NANS stressed that protecting lives and property remains the fundamental responsibility of government and urged the authorities to treat the matter as one of national importance requiring urgent intervention.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating improved welfare and security for students across the country, pledging to continue amplifying their voices until the abducted victims regain their freedom.