More than 30 pupils and a teacher were kidnapped from schools in southwestern Nigeria. This happened during coordinated raids on May 15. The attacks occurred in Oyo state, a region previously thought to be safer than others.
The abductions have deeply troubled parents like Aduke Balogun. Her daughter was among those seized. Gunfire erupted before masked gunmen entered the school. Her other daughter escaped but her eight-year-old was taken. Videos of kidnapped children are circulating, causing distress.
These events are part of a broader trend of insecurity in Nigeria. Kidnapping-for-ransom gangs are no longer confined to the north. They are expanding their operations into new areas. The Nigerian government has struggled to address widespread insecurity for years. This includes farmer-herder conflicts and banditry.
According to security consultancy SBM Intelligence, kidnappers collected at least GHS 2.57 billion (USD 1.89 million) in ransom payments in Nigeria in the year to June 2025. This shows the significant financial motivation behind these crimes. The fear of these attacks is causing people to flee their homes.
Cheta Nwanze of SBM Intelligence noted the Oyo abductions signify a dangerous escalation. He stated that the crisis has moved from Nigeria's north and Middle Belt into the southwest. Nigerians will judge politicians on their ability to ensure safety. This is expected to be a key issue before the 2027 general elections.
President Bola Tinubu pledged to improve security when he took office. He promised to recruit and equip more soldiers and police. However, the Oyo attacks, and a previous kidnapping of 42 schoolchildren in Borno state, intensify scrutiny. They put pressure on Tinubu's security record as he prepares for re-election.
No group has claimed responsibility for the Oyo attacks so far. However, the military has pointed fingers at Boko Haram militants. These groups typically operate in the northeast. There are reports that security forces suffered injuries during an initial rescue attempt.
Authorities have managed to make contact with the kidnappers. Eight suspects have been detained and are assisting with the investigation. Police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed this. Families are urged to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. The priority for parents like Grace Ojo is the safe return of their children.
These kidnappings have significant economic and social implications. They disrupt education and create widespread fear. The pressure on the government to restore order will increase. The 2027 elections will likely be a referendum on its ability to manage security.