The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence [CAIDOV] strongly condemns the recent abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State and the barbaric beheading of a teacher during the attack.
This atrocity is a direct assault on education, on human dignity, and on the right of every Nigerian child to learn in safety. Schools must never become killing fields. Teachers must never become targets.
*CAIDOV states unequivocally:*
1. *The beheading of the teacher is a crime against humanity.* Such savagery cannot and must not be normalized. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, colleagues, and students of the deceased.
2. *The abduction of students and teachers is a national disgrace.* Education is a right, not a bargaining chip. The government has a constitutional duty under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution to protect lives and property.
3. *Inaction is complicity.* The repeated pattern of attacks on schools shows a failure of intelligence gathering, rapid response, and preventive security measures.
*CAIDOV Demands:*
– *Immediate and safe rescue* of all abducted students and teachers. No ransom or negotiation that strengthens criminal gangs.
– *A transparent investigation* with public findings and the prosecution of all perpetrators and their sponsors.
– *Full implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative* in Oyo State, including trained school security, functional early warning systems, and rapid response units.
– *Victim support and compensation* for families, plus trauma counseling for surviving students and staff.
We call on the Oyo State Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the Inspector General of Police to treat this as a national emergency. Every delay costs lives and emboldens criminals.
CAIDOV will continue to monitor, document, and hold duty bearers accountable until justice is served and schools are safe.
