Tension continues to rise in Oyo State as residents of Ogbomoso took to the streets once again to demand the release of dozens of students, teachers, and school officials who have remained in captivity for more than three weeks.

Among those kidnapped is Mrs. Rachael Alamu, the principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele. In a viral video released from captivity, she made an emotional appeal to Nigerians, urging them not to believe reports claiming that the kidnappers demanded the introduction of Sharia Law in Nigeria.

According to Alamu, the claims being circulated in some sections of the media are false and could complicate efforts to secure their freedom.

“They are not asking for Sharia law. They are not asking for money. The only thing they want is the release of some of their people,” she said in the video.

The mass abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when over 40 pupils and teachers were taken from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Since then, families have waited anxiously for positive news while public pressure on the government continues to grow.

On Monday, hundreds of angry residents blocked major roads in Ogbomoso, causing traffic disruptions as they called on both the federal and state governments to intensify rescue efforts.

Many protesters questioned why some recent kidnapping victims were rescued within days while their loved ones have remained in captivity for nearly a month.

The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) has also maintained pressure on authorities, with teachers across the state embarking on industrial action until the kidnapped victims are safely returned.

In her emotional message, Alamu pleaded with Nigerians to help spread the truth and avoid political narratives that could endanger those still being held.

The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns about insecurity, especially in schools and rural communities across the country. As negotiations and rescue efforts continue, families of the victims say their only wish is to see their loved ones return home safely.

For now, the wait continues, and the voices demanding action are growing louder each day.