Ogbomoso Anglican Diocese condoles with families, condemns terrorist attack in Yawota, Esinele

Ogbomoso Anglican Diocese condoles with families, condemns terrorist attack in Yawota, Esinele

Yinka ADETUNJI

The Diocese of Ogbomoso, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has commiserated with the families who lost their loved ones in bandits’ attack at Oriire local government area last Friday. This is as they condemned the attack .

A statement issued by the Diocese notes, “The Diocese of Ogbomoso, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), receives with deep sorrow and outrage the news of the coordinated terrorist attacks on the communities of Yawota and Esiele last Friday, 15th May, 2026.

“We mourn the teachers who were brutally killed in the line of duty. These were men and women who had committed their lives to the noble task of shaping young minds in our communities. Their only ‘offence’ was service to education and to the future of Oyo State.We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, to the management and staff of Esiele Community High School and other affected schools, and to the entire Oriire Local Government area.”

The Diocese similarly condemned the attack observing it’s an attack on the conscience of the society.

They urged government to expedite action on the rescue of the minors and their teachers and ensure such thing never happens.

“We are equally distressed by the reports that pupils, along with their teachers, were abducted during the attacks and remain in captivity. Every child has a right to learn in safety, and every teacher has a right to teach without fear. The continued detention of these innocent citizens is an affront to our shared humanity and to the values of peace and justice that our nation professes.

“Our condolence and call:

“To the bereaved families: the Diocese stands with you in this moment of grief. We pray that the God of all comfort will strengthen you, and that the memory of your loved ones will be honored through a renewed commitment to peace and education in Oriire LGA.

“To the government at all levels: we urge immediate, decisive, and sustained action to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers unharmed. Security is a primary duty of the state, and the people of Yawota, Esiele, and surrounding communities must not be left to face this terror alone. Intelligence, rapid response, and protection for schools must be prioritized without delay.”

The Church stresses it is totally against terror, urging people to speak out against the act.

“The Diocese of Ogbomoso unequivocally condemns these acts of terror. No ideology, grievance, or cause justifies the killing of teachers and the abduction of children. Such violence undermines the very foundation of society and betrays the future of our nation. We call on all people of goodwill—religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society, and citizens—to speak with one voice against this evil and to support efforts that restore peace and security.

“Education is the path to development, and teachers are its guardians. An attack on a teacher is an attack on the nation’s future. An attack on a child in school is an attack on our conscience,” while assuring, “We will continue to pray for the safe return of the abducted, for healing for the injured and traumatized, and for wisdom for those in authority. May God grant rest to the departed, comfort to the bereaved, and courage to all who stand for peace in Ogbomoso land and beyond.”