The Oyo State chapter of the Socialist Labour has welcomed the rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the operation as a victory made possible through sustained public pressure and collective action.
Drivetvnews gathered that In a statement signed by its Oyo State Chairman, Comrade Ogundele Ayodele (Aystruggle), the group expressed solidarity with the rescued victims and their families after more than 50 days in captivity.
According to the organisation, the successful rescue demonstrated the power of peaceful public mobilisation.
“The safe rescue of the teachers and students after over 50 days in captivity should be celebrated as a victory achieved through peaceful and collective pressure on the government,” the statement read.
While celebrating the release of the victims, Socialist Labour urged the Federal Government not to overlook those who lost their lives during the ordeal, including teachers and security personnel involved in the rescue operation.
The group extended condolences to the bereaved families and members of the labour movement, stressing that their sacrifices should not be forgotten.
It maintained that the rescue did not happen solely because of government efforts but was driven by persistent advocacy from workers, civil society organisations, and citizens through protests and social media campaigns.
“The critical lesson from Oriire is simple: If we fight, we might win. But if we don’t fight, we have already lost,” the group stated.
Socialist Labour blamed Nigeria’s worsening insecurity on what it described as the failure of the country’s political leadership, accusing the ruling class of neglecting the welfare and safety of ordinary Nigerians.
The organisation also criticised politicians for allegedly exploiting security crises for political gain instead of addressing the root causes.
It called for a government that prioritises security, employment, infrastructure, electricity, roads, and social welfare, insisting that Nigerians should not continue to live in fear.
The group further urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rescue other victims still in captivity across the country, including schoolchildren reportedly abducted from three schools in Mussa, Borno State.
It also demanded the arrest and prosecution of kidnappers and their sponsors while calling on the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, teachers’ unions, student bodies, youth organisations, and community groups to organise peaceful mass protests against insecurity.
“The working class must organise, mobilise, and reclaim our safety through collective struggle,” the statement concluded.
