The Reformed Nigeria Youth Movement (RNYM) has called for more decisive and sustained action to ensure safe release of pupils and teachers abducted in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The group made the call in a statement by its National President, Teslim Moronkola, Ibadan, on Wednesday.

The group said it received with shock the news of the attack on the community’s institutions on May 15, leading to the abduction of 39 pupils and seven teachers.

It also regretted the killing of a mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun.

“The circulation of the video of his killing is not only inhumane, but a direct assault on the sanctity of life and the future of our nation. No child or educator should go to school in fear of being kidnapped or killed,” it said.

It sympathised with the family of the late Oyedokun, the abducted pupils and teachers, and the entire Oriire community.

Meanwhile, the youth group commended the efforts of the Oyo State Government, the Nigeria Police Force and the Amotekun Corps for their response and ongoing rescue operations.

It said the arrest of six suspects, including alleged informants linked to the incident, was a step in the right direction.

It urged the government at all levels to ensure adequate security presence in schools and communities across the country.

“Schools must be designated as safe zones with functional perimeter fencing, community policing and rapid response units. No parent should have to choose between sending a child to school and keeping them alive,” it stated.

The group also called for improved security, electoral integrity and urgent measures to address the high cost of living in the country.

According to the group, transparent and people-centred interventions are needed to stabilise food prices, reduce transportation costs and provide relief in housing and energy.

O  the 2027 general elections, it stressed the need for transparency and fairness in the electoral process, beginning with party primaries.

It said that anything contrary could undermine public trust in the electoral process and discourage credible aspirants from participating in politics.

It, therefore, urged the government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and political parties to work together to protect schools, democracy and livelihoods. 

(NAN)