Forty-six people, mostly children aged between two and 16, were kidnapped during coordinated attacks on three schools in southwest Nigeria last week, according to the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). CAN president for Oyo State, Elisha Olukayode Ogundiya, confirmed that the victims were seized during the raids on Friday.
Gunmen reportedly targeted Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, as well as two other schools in Esiele, in what police described as a coordinated attack. Several pupils, students, and staff members, including a vice principal, were taken.
Nigeria continues to face insecurity linked to armed criminal gangs known as bandits, who frequently carry out kidnappings for ransom, particularly in rural areas. Although such attacks are more common in the north and central regions, the latest incident has raised concern in the southwest.
The Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board temporarily closed nearby schools following the attacks to prevent further incidents and allow security operations to stabilise the area. Schools are expected to reopen this week.