Oyo School Abductions: CAN Declares Prayer, Fasting

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, has declared Wednesday, May 20, a day of prayer and fasting for the abducted principal, teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The state chairman of CAN, Rev. Elisha Ogundiya, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, saying the association was deeply saddened and disturbed by the attack that occurred on Friday, when armed assailants invaded Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities.

“We condemn this act in the strongest terms. Schools must remain safe spaces for learning, not hunting grounds for criminals,” the statement said.

“The trauma inflicted on these children, their teachers, and their families is immeasurable,” it added.

While commending the steps already taken by the Oyo State Government and security agencies, CAN urged authorities to ensure the immediate release of all 46 abducted persons.

The association also called for concrete measures to prevent a recurrence of such attacks, including the strengthening of community-based security frameworks and improved school safety protocols.

It further urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide useful information that could aid ongoing rescue operations.

CAN directed all churches in the state to observe the prayer and fasting exercise on Wednesday, with the fast expected to end at 6:00 p.m.

It said prayer points would focus on the release of the abductees, divine protection for the state, and repentance for the perpetrators, citing Bible passages including 2 Chronicles 7:14 and Ephesians 6:10.

“We continue to pray for the safe return of these abductees and for the exposure and defeat of those behind this evil act,” the association added.