The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Oyo State Chapter, has welcomed the safe release of the students and teachers abducted from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, commending the Federal and Oyo State governments for the coordinated efforts that led to their freedom.
The association also called for stronger security measures in schools across the state, particularly those located in rural and border local government areas, to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
In a statement signed by its Chairperson, Comrade Omolola Alamu, Oyo NAWOJ said the news of the release of the abducted students and teachers was received with immense relief and gratitude after agonising days of uncertainty for their families, the school community and people of goodwill across Oyo State.
The association acknowledged the proactive response of federal and state security agencies, noting that their intelligence gathering and rescue operations ensured the safe return of the abductees alive and unharmed.
Oyo NAWOJ also commended the political will and leadership demonstrated by both the Federal and Oyo State governments in prioritising the safety of children and refusing to bow to criminal elements.
According to the association, the collaboration of community stakeholders, traditional rulers and civil society organisations also played a vital role in securing the release of the abducted students and teachers.
Speaking from its perspective as an association of mothers, journalists and advocates for women and children, Oyo NAWOJ said it understood the trauma such incidents could inflict on victims, their families and the wider community.
The association praised the government for treating the incident not merely as a security challenge but also as a humanitarian crisis requiring urgency and compassion.
Despite welcoming the positive outcome, Oyo NAWOJ appealed to the government to strengthen the security architecture in schools across Oyo State, especially those in rural and border local government areas such as Orire.
It further urged the government to provide psychosocial support for the released students and their families to aid their recovery, while ensuring that the perpetrators of the abduction are apprehended and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others and restore public confidence.
The association said the safe return of the Orire students and teachers reaffirmed that when governments act decisively and collaboratively, lives are saved and hope is restored.
Oyo NAWOJ expressed solidarity with the affected families and reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism that promotes peace, child protection and national unity.
“Once again, we say thank you to the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, security agencies and all those who worked behind the scenes for this positive outcome,” the statement concluded.
