Oyo Kidnap Crisis: Traditional Worshippers Storm Olumo Rock, Invoke Ancestors for Safe Return of Abducted Pupils and Teachers

Traditional religion practitioners in Ogun State have held special spiritual rites at Olumo Rock and other revered cultural sites in Abeokuta, seeking divine intervention for the safe return of more than 40 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oyo State nearly three weeks ago.

The solemn gathering was led by Dr. Omolara Fashola-MacGregor, wife of the Olu of Orile-Ilawo, Oba Alexander Olusegun MacGregor, and drew traditional worshippers clad in customary attire who offered prayers, poured libations, and invoked ancestral spirits on behalf of the victims and their families.

The worshippers called on the deities and spiritual guardians revered in Yoruba tradition to intervene in the ongoing crisis and ensure the safe release of those still being held captive.

Prayers Offered for Victims’ Safe Return

During the ceremony, participants expressed concern over the continued captivity of the schoolchildren and teachers, describing the situation as a painful tragedy that has unsettled families and communities.

The spiritual exercise focused on seeking protection for the abducted victims and appealing for divine justice against those responsible for the attack.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Fashola-MacGregor said the suffering of the children and educators had touched the hearts of many Nigerians, prompting the need for collective spiritual action.

“The cries of these innocent school children have reached the heavens,” she declared.

“We are invoking the spirit of our ancestors and the potent deities of our land to go into the deepest forests. May those who have taken these children find no sleep, no peace, and no safety until every single child and teacher is returned unharmed.”

Calls for Justice and National Unity

Beyond prayers for the victims, the gathering also featured appeals for justice and an end to the wave of kidnappings and insecurity affecting various parts of the country.

Participants urged Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation, to unite in support of efforts aimed at securing the release of those in captivity and restoring safety to schools and communities.

The worshippers maintained that the ceremony was not only about spiritual intervention but also about demonstrating solidarity with the affected families during a difficult period.

Growing Concern Over School Abductions

The ritual comes amid growing public concern over the increasing incidence of school kidnappings and attacks on educational institutions.

The abduction of the pupils and teachers in Oyo State has continued to generate reactions from political leaders, religious organisations, civil society groups, and concerned citizens across the country.

The attack, which occurred in mid-May, reportedly claimed the life of an assistant headmaster and left dozens of pupils and teachers in the hands of their abductors.

As families anxiously await positive news, calls for intensified rescue efforts have continued to mount, with many Nigerians praying for the safe return of all those still being held captive.

The ceremony at Olumo Rock added a traditional spiritual dimension to the nationwide appeals, reflecting the depth of concern and emotional impact the abductions have had on communities across the country.