Anxiety and frustration continue to mount in Esinele community, Orire LGA of Oyo State, as residents and parents of abducted students and teachers renewed calls for urgent government intervention to secure the release of their loved ones.
The appeal was made during a sympathy visit by a delegation of the Oyo State chapter of the City Boy Movement to the community, following the abduction of 46 students and teachers by gunmen who invaded the town on May 15.
Twenty-seven days after the attack, the victims remain in captivity, with their whereabouts still unknown, leaving families in anguish and uncertainty.
Speaking during the visit, several parents lamented the prolonged ordeal and expressed disappointment over the delay in rescuing the abductees.
Among them were Damilola Sunday and Mary Olohunda, whose children are among those still being held captive. Overcome with emotion, the mothers pleaded with both the state and federal governments to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.
“We were told to keep our minds at rest, but today marks the 26th day and we are fed up,” Damilola said amid tears.
“Many of these children are only five years old. More than 36 children were taken away. We are begging the government to help us rescue them.”
The traditional ruler of the community, the Elesinele of Esinele, Oba Tajudeen Abioye, also expressed appreciation to the delegation for identifying with the community during its difficult period.
“To all of you who came to sympathise with us, may God be with you,” the monarch said.
“Both the state and federal governments have assured us that very soon our children and their teachers shall be rescued.”
The City Boy Movement delegation said the visit was aimed at reassuring residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the abductees and restore confidence among affected families.
Director of the City Boy Movement in Oyo State, Olufemi Onireti, described the incident as unfortunate and assured the community that stakeholders were committed to supporting efforts toward the victims’ rescue.
Also speaking, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Leader in Oyo State, Olalekan Glory, urged residents not to lose hope, noting that relevant authorities were working towards a positive outcome.
The delegation later paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Elesinele, where they reiterated assurances of government’s determination to facilitate the quick rescue of the abducted students and teachers.
Despite the assurances, concern continues to grow within the community as days turn into weeks with no sign of the victims’ release.
Residents say their patience is wearing thin and have called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure that the abductees are reunited with their families without further delay.