26 Days in Captivity: Oyo, Borno School Abductions Spark Air Surveillance Hunt, Spiritual Outcry
It has been 26 days since schoolchildren and teachers were abducted in separate incidents in Oyo State and Borno State. The children and teachers remain in captivity, while families continue to wait for a breakthrough.
In Oyo State, the abduction in Oriire Local Government Area triggered sustained search-and-rescue operations. Security agencies have maintained ground operations across surrounding communities. Authorities say coordination among agencies remains active.
A key development in recent weeks is the deployment of aerial surveillance support. The Nigerian Air Force deployed an aircraft to assist rescue operations in Oyo State. Intelligence gathered from the missions has helped guide search patterns and improve coordination between security teams.
Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed that the surveillance platform has strengthened operational planning. He explained that intelligence sharing between agencies continues to support ongoing efforts. Officials maintain that resources are still fully engaged in the search.
In Borno State, security operations have also continued in response to separate school abduction incidents. Military and security agencies remain active in affected areas as part of ongoing rescue efforts.
Authorities describe the situation in Borno as complex due to persistent security threats. However, they insist that operations remain ongoing and coordinated across relevant formations.
Beyond military action, cultural responses have also emerged. In Abeokuta, women traditional worshippers held a spiritual procession across sacred shrines. They prayed for the safe return of abducted schoolchildren and teachers, calling for both divine and institutional intervention.
Led by Dr. Omolara Fashola-MacGregor, the group visited sites such as Olumo Rock and other ancestral shrines. At each location, they offered prayers and performed traditional rites for peace, protection, and restoration of safety.
The procession reflected growing public concern over the prolonged situation. Participants called for unity among traditional institutions, religious groups, and government agencies in addressing insecurity.
As the crisis reaches 26 days, search operations continue across both states. Families of the abducted children and teachers are still awaiting resolution. Hope remains, but urgency is steadily increasing.
