Children's Day Outcry: Falz, Entertainers Slam Authorities Over 46 Abducted In Oyo -

What should have been a day of celebration for Nigeria’s children turned into a national outcry on Wednesday as prominent Nollywood actors and entertainers took to social media to demand the immediate release of dozens of pupils and teachers abducted in Oyo State nearly two weeks ago.

Recall that on May 15, armed gunmen on motorcycles stormed three schools in the Ahoro-Esinele community, Oriire Local Government Area: Baptist Nursery and Primary School (Yawota), Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School.

The attackers abducted approximately 39 students (aged 2 to 16) and 7 teachers, according to multiple reports. One teacher was killed in captivity, with disturbing videos of the hostages circulating online.

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As Nigerians marked Children’s Day, celebrities amplified public frustration over the government’s handling of the crisis, describing the occasion as “miserable” rather than joyful.

Popular rapper and actor Falz delivered one of the most scathing responses, stating: “Today is Children’s Day but there’s absolutely nothing happy about the day — in fact, it’s completely miserable.”

He highlighted the abduction of over 40 people, mostly young children, and criticized what he described as official indifference.

Actress Eniola Badmus echoed the sentiment, posting: “Our hearts are with them,” while expressing solidarity with the affected families.

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, popularly known as Kie Kie, warned against repeating past tragedies like the Chibok girls’ abduction, urging decisive government action. Other stars including Toyin Abraham, Bambam, and several colleagues shared emotional messages calling for the safe return of the victims.

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The collective outcry, often using hashtags like #BringBackOurStudents, reflects widespread anger over persistent insecurity in parts of the country, where school attacks and ransom-driven kidnappings have become distressingly common.

46 Children abducted

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed the abductions and reported that security forces, including the military, police, and local vigilantes, are engaged in rescue operations. Some suspects have been arrested, but many victims remain in captivity in nearby forests.

President Bola Tinubu has also condemned the attack and ordered intensified efforts.

Meanwhile, no major releases have been publicly confirmed, leaving families in anguish and celebrities using their platforms to keep pressure on authorities.

This incident adds to a troubling pattern of school-targeted violence in Nigeria, drawing comparisons to earlier high-profile abductions and reigniting debates about rural security and the protection of children.

Parents and community leaders continue to appeal for swift intervention as rescue operations remain ongoing.