Ogbomoso, Oyo State – Outrage and heartbreak have reached new heights in Oyo State as distraught parents and community leaders reveal the shocking torture being inflicted on abducted schoolchildren by their kidnappers.…....
In a desperate cry that has gone viral, affected families report that the young hostages — some barely toddlers — are being subjected to severe physical abuse, including the application of hot rubber to their backs.
“Kidnappers are torturing our school children with hot rubber to their backs… Some of these pupils are as little as 2, 3, 4, 6 years old. No country on earth will allow this magnitude of horror on her citizens especially the children…” one emotional statement circulating widely reads.
The comments stem from the May 15, 2026, coordinated attacks on three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esin-Ele communities of Oriire Local Government Area. Armed bandits on motorcycles stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community High School, and L.A. Primary School in Ahoro-Esin-Ele, abducting approximately 39–46 children and seven teachers. One mathematics teacher was reportedly killed in captivity, with a disturbing video of his beheading circulating online.
Parents and residents have expressed deep frustration, questioning the Nigerian government’s response to what they describe as an unprecedented level of cruelty against innocent children. Many are calling for immediate military action rather than negotiations, while others fear for the long-term trauma the young victims will carry if rescued.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed the abductions and the death of at least one teacher, stating that the government is open to dialogue with the kidnappers to secure the safe release of the victims. However, no confirmed releases have been reported as of May 23, 2026, despite earlier unverified rumors.
Security forces continue search operations in the surrounding forests, but families say time is running out as the children face daily torture.
This incident has sparked nationwide protests, with teachers, students, and civil society groups demanding better protection for schools in vulnerable rural areas. Many parents have withdrawn their children from classes, fearing further attacks.
The horror in Oriire has once again thrust Nigeria’s worsening insecurity into the spotlight, raising painful questions about the value placed on young lives in a nation struggling to protect its most vulnerable citizens.
