The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described the abduction of pupils and teachers during attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as a dangerous escalation of insecurity and a direct threat to Nigeria’s future.
In a statement issued on Monday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, condemned the coordinated attacks on schools in Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities, warning that criminal violence was spreading beyond regions previously associated with mass kidnappings.
The association said the ability of armed men to invade schools in broad daylight, kill innocent citizens and abduct children exposed serious weaknesses in the country’s security architecture.
According to CAN, the incident has further deepened fears among parents, teachers and rural communities over the safety of schools across the country.
“It is a national humiliation that children can no longer learn in safety while teachers are forced to risk their lives simply for carrying out their duties,” the statement said.
The Christian body lamented what it described as growing public frustration over repeated attacks and what many Nigerians see as inadequate responses from authorities.
CAN said Nigerians were increasingly weary of official condolences that fail to translate into stronger protection for vulnerable communities.
The association also paid tribute to the assistant headmaster reportedly killed while attempting to shield pupils during the attack, describing his action as courageous and selfless.
It warned that continued failure to dismantle kidnapping gangs and armed criminal groups could embolden attackers and worsen insecurity in other parts of the country.
The organisation urged the Federal Government, security agencies and the Oyo State Government to deploy all necessary resources to rescue the abducted victims and apprehend those behind the attacks.
CAN further called for urgent reinforcement of safe school measures, especially in rural communities and vulnerable areas where schools remain exposed to criminal attacks.
The association said Nigeria must not allow fear and violence to take over its education system, stressing that protecting children and schools should remain a national priority.
It also expressed solidarity with affected families and communities, while praying for the safe release of all abducted victims
