Abayomi Susan
The principal of Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, Oyo State, Mrs. Alamu Folawe, who was recently rescued after being abducted by gunmen, has revealed details of her harrowing experience, including the circumstances surrounding the killing of two teachers during the attack.
According to her account, the kidnappers deliberately killed two of their colleagues as part of an attempt to mount pressure on the government, leaving the surviving victims traumatised by the emotional and psychological effects of the ordeal.
Mrs. Alamu disclosed that Mr. Michael was killed on the second day of their captivity, while Deacon was murdered on the first Sunday in June, stressing that the actions were carried out deliberately by the abductors.
“They killed them intentionally because they believed it would compel the government to meet their demands,” she said.
The principal explained that throughout their captivity, the kidnappers subjected the victims to intense psychological intimidation and fear, attempting to weaken their resolve by making them believe that authorities had abandoned efforts to secure their release.
She said the abductors repeatedly told them that the government was no longer interested in their situation, but the prayers and support of Nigerians helped them remain hopeful despite the difficult circumstances.
“One thing that gave us relief was knowing that Nigerians were praying for us. Many times, they used fear to intimidate and control us. At some point, they told us that the government was no longer interested in our case because they did not value us.
“But there were moments when we remained hopeful that we would come out alive,” she recalled.
The revelation of the killing of two teachers during the incident has renewed concerns over the safety of education workers and students, particularly in areas where criminal elements continue to target schools and communities.
The incident has also intensified calls for improved security measures around educational institutions, stronger intelligence gathering, and closer collaboration between security agencies and local communities to prevent future attacks.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern that repeated attacks on schools could disrupt academic activities, discourage teachers from working in affected areas and create fear among parents and students.
Beyond the immediate tragedy, the incident has further highlighted the wider security challenges facing communities and the need for sustainable strategies to protect schools and other critical institutions.
Stakeholders have stressed that safeguarding educational facilities requires a coordinated approach involving government authorities, security agencies, traditional institutions and community leaders.
Meanwhile, residents and education advocates have called on authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice while implementing stronger measures to protect teachers and learners across the country.
Reflecting on their eventual rescue, Mrs. Alamu said it was only after they regained their freedom that they fully understood the level of concern and support that had surrounded their case.
She acknowledged that the experience left lasting emotional scars but expressed optimism that healing would come with time.
“It was only after we got out that we discovered the whole world was following our case. We have scars already, but we believe that with time, we will heal,” she said.
