A Christian mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, has reportedly been killed after gunmen attacked several schools in Nigeria’s Oyo state and abducted teachers and pupils.
The incident took place on 15 May in the Oriire Local Government Area near Ogbomoso. According to local reports, armed attackers invaded three schools along the Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities, taking a number of staff members and students.
Witnesses said the gunmen arrived on motorcycles before escaping into nearby forest areas with the victims.
In the days following the attack, a disturbing video believed to show Oyedokun’s killing began circulating online. The footage sparked outrage across Ogbomoso, where residents, teachers, youth groups, and community leaders organised demonstrations and blocked major roads while demanding stronger security for schools and rural communities.
At the time of reporting, authorities had not confirmed how many victims were still being held captive.
Members of the local community described Oyedokun as a faithful Christian and dedicated teacher who served young people with commitment and care. Church leaders and civil society organisations have called on security agencies to rescue those still missing and bring the attackers to justice.
The attack has renewed concerns over growing insecurity in parts of south-west Nigeria, where kidnappings targeting schools and local communities have increased in recent years.
During a prayer meeting held for the victims, a pastor in Ogbomoso urged government authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve protection for vulnerable areas.
Community leaders said many parents and families are now living in fear following the targeting of teachers and schoolchildren.
The incident has also led to renewed discussions about violence and religious tensions in Nigeria, with some residents comparing the case to other widely reported killings in the country in recent years.
As protests continued, Christian leaders and local residents appealed to both state and federal authorities to secure schools, rescue the remaining hostages, and ensure those responsible face prosecution.
Across Oyo state, prayer gatherings have continued as families, colleagues, and students mourn the death of Michael Oyedokun and pray for the safe return of the abducted victims.
Based on reporting from ICC. Rewritten for this publication.
