The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, demanding the immediate rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State.
The rights group warned that failure to secure the victims’ release within the stipulated period would represent a serious failure of the government’s constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property.
The pupils and teachers were reportedly kidnapped on May 16, 2026, after armed men attacked communities in the Ahoro-Esinle area of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Security sources confirmed that several schoolchildren and teachers were taken away during the raid.
More than two weeks after the abduction, the victims remain in captivity despite ongoing rescue efforts by security agencies and growing public concern across the state.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the slow pace of efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.
The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to take immediate action to ensure the safe return of all abducted pupils and teachers.
HURIWA argued that the continued captivity of the victims raises concerns about the effectiveness of the country’s security architecture and the government’s ability to guarantee the safety of citizens.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, the organisation stressed that the security and welfare of the people remain the primary responsibility of government.
The association also backed ongoing protests by parents, teachers and civil society groups in Oyo State, describing them as justified reactions to the prolonged ordeal of the victims and their families.
Furthermore, HURIWA called on labour unions, student bodies, religious leaders and civil society organisations to intensify advocacy efforts until the abducted pupils and teachers are safely released.
Meanwhile, security agencies have continued search-and-rescue operations, while the Oyo State government maintains that efforts are ongoing to secure the freedom of those held captive.
