Unknown gunmen have kidnapped six pupils, three teachers, and their bus driver from a private school in Ekiti. The victims were reportedly returning from Eporo-Ekiti when the abduction occurred on Monday night. Apostolic Faith School, Ekiti, is identified as the school affected.
Ekititrends reported the incident on its social media platform. Despite the alarming occurrence, the Ekiti State Government reassured residents not to lose hope, emphasizing that security measures have been intensified for the prompt rescue of the victims.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji condemned the kidnapping, describing it as callous and unacceptable. In a statement issued on Tuesday, he assured the public that every effort is being made to rescue the abducted children and teachers. Security agencies in the state are actively pursuing the abductors with a mandate to ensure the safe return of the victims.
Governor Oyebanji highlighted that security across the state is being intensified to eliminate criminal elements. While urging citizens to remain calm and vigilant, he appealed for cooperation with security agencies by providing relevant information.
Law enforcement agencies, including the police and other security forces, have reportedly mobilized to address the situation promptly. The government pledged a swift and comprehensive rescue operation to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped children.
This incident follows the tragic killing of two Ekiti State monarchs on the Ipao-Oke Ako Road by suspected kidnappers earlier on Monday. The Onimojo of Imojo and the Elesun of Esun Ekiti lost their lives, while the Alara of Ara Ekiti narrowly escaped abduction. The government is grappling with the surge in security challenges and is actively working to address the situation.
