UN demands release of abducted Oyo, Borno pupils, teachers

Mohammed Malick Fall, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, has called for the immediate and unconditional release of pupils and teachers abducted during recent attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states.

Fall made the appeal after a meeting in Abuja with officials of the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre, led by its Commandant, Dr Samuel Umanah, amid growing concern over the abductions and killings linked to attacks on learning institutions.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the UN official described the incidents as a grave threat to children’s right to education and safety, stressing that schools must remain secure environments for learning.

The appeal followed the abduction of more than 40 pupils and seven teachers during coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15. Two teachers were reportedly killed, including one who was beheaded by the attackers.

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A similar attack occurred in Mussa, Borno State, where gunmen stormed three schools and abducted more than 50 children, most aged between two and five years.

Expressing solidarity with affected families, communities and school authorities, Fall said the continued captivity of the victims was deeply troubling.

“Schools must remain safe havens for learning and not places of fear. Children should never be targets,” he said.

While acknowledging efforts by security agencies, Fall urged authorities to intensify measures to secure the safe return of all abducted victims and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

He also called for the full implementation of the Minimum Standards for Safe Schools, stronger emergency response systems and enhanced protection for children and educational facilities, particularly in conflict-affected communities.