Nowhere is safe, NLC warns over Oyo pupils’ abduction

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised alarm over worsening insecurity in the country following the abduction of 39 pupils and seven teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, warning that no part of Nigeria can be considered safe anymore.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, stated this in a release on Wednesday, where he expressed concern over the growing wave of attacks on schools and communities, citing incidents at Community High School and L.A. Basic School, Ahoro Esinele, as well as First Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota.

He said the latest abduction reflects the deepening spread of banditry and terrorism, which he noted has moved from remote communities to more accessible areas, heightening fear among citizens.

Ajaero lamented what he described as the normalisation of mass abductions, saying public reactions to such incidents are increasingly becoming muted due to repeated occurrences across the country.

He warned that continued insecurity could erode public trust in government and security institutions, stressing that citizens in affected communities now live in constant fear of attack.

The labour leader also raised concern over the psychological impact of kidnappings, accusing criminals of using abductees to pressure authorities and spread fear through the circulation of disturbing videos online.

While criticising the situation, Ajaero commended security agencies and local vigilantes for their prompt response and pursuit of the attackers, noting that they faced resistance during rescue efforts.

He, however, urged the federal and state governments to urgently reassess their strategies in tackling insecurity, calling for a more effective and coordinated approach to ending terrorism and banditry.

Ajaero insisted that Nigerians are exhausted by repeated attacks and called for immediate action beyond statements and condolences, warning that the situation requires urgent national attention.