The Southwest Zone of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has condemned the abduction of teachers and pupils at Ahoro Esinele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as a direct attack on education and the future of the nation.
In a statement signed by its Southwest President, Comrade Deji Olatona, the association expressed concern over the rising insecurity affecting schools and communities across Nigeria, noting that the abduction was an attempt to undermine the country’s educational system.
NAPPS described education as a vital legacy and a critical instrument for national development, stressing that attacks on schools threaten the growth and stability of society.
The association called on governors of the six Southwest states, traditional rulers and other key stakeholders to work together in addressing insecurity, particularly in border communities and rural areas vulnerable to criminal activities.
According to the statement, the incident highlights the urgent need for unity and collective action among stakeholders to safeguard lives and property. It also urged security agencies and governments at all levels to strengthen measures aimed at protecting both public and private schools across the country.
“We say no more to terrorism, abduction and the brutal killing of our cherished ones,” the association stated, expressing solidarity with the victims and their families.
NAPPS further described the attack on schools as barbaric and alien to the values and culture of the people, while assuring that it would continue to advocate and pray for the safe release of all those still being held captive.
The association, however, warned that if the abducted teachers and pupils are not released by June 10, 2026, proprietors, staff and students of NAPPS schools across the Southwest would embark on peaceful protests across major cities in the region.
It said the planned demonstrations would include marches to state Houses of Assembly and government offices in the six Southwest states to demand urgent action from authorities.
NAPPS concluded by praying for the safety of schools and the speedy release of all pupils, students and teachers currently in captivity.
