IBADAN, Nigeria — The Nigerian Baptist Convention has warned that churches and citizens are “running out of patience” over worsening insecurity, following the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking in Ibadan, the Convention’s President, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, condemned the attack on schools in the area, where suspected terrorists kidnapped dozens, including children and staff.
“Nigerians, particularly the Church, are running out of patience and cannot continue to watch while lives and properties are being daily wasted,” Akanji said.
Dozens Abducted, Casualties Reported
According to the Convention, at least 46 people were abducted during the attack, including seven teachers and 39 students from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School.
A two-year-old toddler, identified as Christianah Akanbi, was also among those taken. Eyewitnesses said the attackers operated across affected communities and fled with four motorcycles belonging to residents.
The cleric disclosed that some teachers lost their lives during the incident, while those abducted are being held in harsh conditions in the bush.
“Pattern of Attacks on Schools and Churches”
Akanji said the latest incident reflects a growing pattern of attacks targeting schools, churches, and communities across Nigeria, forcing families and institutions to pay ransoms.
He recalled the 2021 abduction of 120 students and a matron from Bethel Baptist High School in Kaduna State, describing the experience as traumatic for families and the church.
“The Nigerian Baptist Convention has faced a series of attacks on our schools and churches across Nigeria,” he said.
Calls for Urgent Security Reforms
The Convention urged governments at all levels to take decisive and coordinated action to address insecurity, stressing that current efforts have not yielded sufficient results.
“This crisis requires coordinated and decisive action beyond mere statements,” Akanji said, calling for improved strategies by security agencies.
He also advocated the establishment of state police, strengthened collaboration with local security groups, and greater involvement of traditional rulers and community leaders.
The cleric further urged the Federal Government to consider international support where necessary to curb the influx of criminal elements.
Appeal for Rescue and National Unity
While condemning the abduction and reported killings, Akanji described the targeting of children as unacceptable and called for urgent action to secure their release.
The Convention expressed sympathy with affected families and called on Nigerians to support ongoing rescue efforts.
“We call on all Nigerians of goodwill to intensify prayers for the quick and safe release of all captives and for lasting peace,” he said.
