The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), alongside several civil society organisations and community groups, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over what they describe as the slow pace of efforts to rescue more than 40 students and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State.

The criticism comes weeks after gunmen attacked schools in the Oriire Local Government Area, kidnapping dozens of pupils and seven teachers. The incident has sparked widespread concern among parents, labour unions, and residents, with calls intensifying for urgent government intervention.

At a public demonstration, OPC members and civil society activists accused both the federal and state governments of failing to act swiftly enough to secure the victims’ freedom. Protesters urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and demanded greater transparency regarding the progress of efforts to locate the abductees.

The prolonged captivity of the victims has also triggered industrial action. The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers declared an indefinite strike across public primary and secondary schools, arguing that teachers and pupils cannot continue learning under such conditions of insecurity.

Governor Makinde has appealed for patience and support, stating that the federal, state, and local governments are collaborating with security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted children and teachers. He has urged the public to avoid assigning blame while rescue efforts continue and reiterated that the safety of residents remains a priority.

The mass abduction has renewed national debate over insecurity in Nigeria and increased pressure on authorities to strengthen the protection of schools and vulnerable communities. Parents, unions, and advocacy groups continue to call for the immediate and safe release of all those still being held captive.