Human rights advocate Francis Nwapa has criticised the Oyo State Government, accusing it of politicising the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren by allegedly portraying the incident through a religious lens instead of concentrating on efforts to secure the victims’ release.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Nwapa faulted reports that government officials publicised alleged demands made by the kidnappers, including claims that they requested a ₦1 billion ransom and the introduction of Sharia law in Oyo State. He noted that some of the abducted victims had reportedly rejected the claim regarding Sharia law.
According to him, making such sensitive information public while hostages remain in captivity is inappropriate and could undermine rescue efforts. He argued that governments generally avoid disclosing details of communications or negotiations with armed groups when lives are still at risk.
Nwapa expressed concern that the statements could be an attempt to shift public attention away from worsening insecurity and the government’s responsibility to protect residents. He maintained that regardless of whether the reported demands were genuine, the priority should remain the safe return of the abducted individuals.
The activist also warned against actions or narratives capable of creating religious or ethnic divisions within the state. He stressed that criminal activities such as kidnapping and terrorism should be addressed through effective security measures and law enforcement rather than public rhetoric that could inflame tensions.
Calling for urgent action, Nwapa urged authorities to deploy every available security resource to secure the unconditional release of the teachers and schoolchildren. He emphasised that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of both the state and federal governments.
He further demanded a transparent response to the growing security challenges in Oyo State, improved safety measures for schools and communities, and an end to statements that could deepen social divisions. Nwapa concluded that innocent citizens should not suffer because of government failures, negligence, or political distractions.
