The speaker of the Lagos State Youth Parliament, Itunuoluwa Soniregun, has expressed deep concerns over the continued captivity of students and teachers abducted in the Oriire local government area of Oyo State.

Ms Soniregun said on Friday in Lagos that the prolonged absence of the victims continued to weigh heavily on the hearts of many Nigerians.

She urged the government to sustain efforts toward their safe and immediate return.

The 46 victims, comprising 39 students and seven teachers, were abducted on May 23 at the Oriire Local Government Area, near Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

Ms Soniregun stated that the pain being endured by the affected families was shared by many, who expected their safe release by their abductors before now.

“The continued absence of these students and teachers weighs heavily on every heart, and we remain united in prayers, hope and unwavering support for their safe return,” she said.

She, however, commended the resilience of the families, noting that their courage amid uncertainty and emotional trauma reflected extraordinary strength that deserved the support and solidarity of all citizens.

The Lagos youth parliament speaker acknowledged ongoing efforts by security agencies and relevant stakeholders, expressing optimism that coordinated actions would soon yield positive outcomes and bring relief to affected families and communities.

“We commend all ongoing efforts by the authorities and trust that collective action, compassion and determination will soon produce the expected result for the affected families to have their beloved children back,” she said.

Ms Soniregun lauded Moremi Ojudu, senior special assistant to the president on community engagement (South-West zone), for personally visiting the families, listening to their concerns and offering reassurance during the difficult period.

She noted that Ms Ojudu’s engagements with traditional rulers and security authorities, as well as the solidarity demonstrated by the Oyo State Youth Parliament, underscored the importance of compassionate and people-centred leadership.

“True leadership is demonstrated through empathy and presence, especially during difficult times when families need comfort, solidarity, reassurance and renewed hope for tomorrow,” she added.

Keeping faith with the affected families, Ms Soniregun expressed confidence that the abducted students and teachers would return alive and safely home.

She urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayers and support for the affected families, insisting that the victims must not be forgotten.

(NAN)