Outrage grows as Nigerians protest continuous school abductions

Civil society groups and activists gathered in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, on June 4th to demand the immediate rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State, amid growing concern over the country’s ongoing school kidnapping crisis, reports Africa News with AFP on June 5th.

The demonstrators called on the government to take urgent action to secure the release of those kidnapped from three schools in the south-western state. Protesters also condemned the killing of a teacher during one of the attacks in May, arguing that authorities have failed to adequately protect educational institutions.

The protest came as police confirmed a fresh kidnapping incident in north-western Zamfara State, where gunmen reportedly abducted at least seven students from a polytechnic on June 3rd. The latest attack has intensified fears over the safety of students across the country.

Speaking during the demonstration, activist Arije Christy Alao expressed frustration over the recurring violence targeting schools and communities.

She said Nigerians had become increasingly fearful as kidnappings and killings continue, adding that many people feel unsafe in their own country.

Former presidential candidate and activist Omoyele Sowore, whose Take It Back Movement helped organise the protest, also criticised the government’s handling of insecurity. He said demonstrators were deeply concerned about children still being held captive and argued that security forces should be focusing their efforts on rescuing victims.

Sowore warned that public anger over the continued attacks was growing and renewed his calls for greater accountability from security agencies.

School abductions have become a major security challenge in Nigeria over the past decade. Armed groups frequently target students and educational institutions, often demanding ransom payments in exchange for their release.

Despite government efforts to improve security, activists say progress has been limited. According to campaigners, more than 1,500 students and school staff have been abducted nationwide over the last ten years.

The latest protests highlight increasing public pressure on authorities to address the wave of kidnappings and improve security for schools across the country.

Africa News with AFP, Maghrebi.org