Student unions across Nigeria on Tuesday called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rescue abducted students and bring to justice those sponsoring or aiding recent violent attacks, as insecurity continues to spread nationwide.
The appeal was made during a world press conference jointly organised by the National Association of Oduduwà Students (NAOS) and the Office of the Senate President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS). The event took place at the Federal Cooperative College, Eleyele, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking on behalf of the unions, Benedict Adetunji, the NAOS National President, expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of kidnappings, killings, and coordinated bandit attacks on schools and communities.
He cited recent tragedies including the attack on Eruku Church in Kwara State and the abduction at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State describing them as threats to the nation’s moral fabric, religious freedom, and educational stability.
“We demand the immediate launch of a national rescue operation for all abducted students, teachers, and worshippers. Our children cannot remain in captivity while the nation looks on,” Adetunji said.
This call comes a day after South-West governors met in Ibadan to demand urgent federal action to secure forests across the region that have become hideouts for criminal groups.
Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Dapo Abiodun, Seyi Makinde, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Biodun Oyebanji were present, while Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke was represented by his deputy.
The student unions further urged the government to strengthen security in schools and worship centres, particularly in vulnerable communities, through armed patrols, rapid-response teams, and community-driven intelligence systems.
“Students and worshippers must feel safe. Negotiations and ransom payments should end. Terrorists deserve justice, not dialogue,” Adetunji added.
Also speaking, NAPS Senate President Oyewumi Ayomide described the persistent insecurity as “unacceptable and unsustainable.”
He referenced the abduction of 25 female students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, as well as recent killings of farmers and worshippers in Borno and Kwara States, calling the situation a national emergency.
The unions appealed to Yoruba traditional rulers the Ooni of Ife, Alaafin of Oyo, and Olubadan of Ibadan to engage directly with the President to find lasting solutions.
They also encouraged religious leaders to speak boldly against rising violence to restore hope and unity.
“We are more than the terrorists. Enough is enough. Nigeria must rise to protect its people. The time for speeches is over decisive action is now required,” they declared.
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