Panic in Oyo community as residents flee after school abductions, fear fresh bandit attack (Video)

Fear and uncertainty have taken hold of Yawota community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, following renewed concerns of armed bandit attacks that have forced many residents to abandon their homes.

Community members were said to have begun fleeing the area amid intelligence of a possible fresh invasion, days after a violent incident on May 15, 2026, in which armed men reportedly stormed Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School, as well as nearby schools in Esiele and Ahoro-Esiele communities.

During the attack, several students and the principal of one of the affected schools were allegedly abducted, sparking widespread panic across the affected rural settlements in Oriire Local Government Area.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers struck unexpectedly, creating confusion and forcing teachers, pupils, and residents to flee into surrounding bushes for safety. The incident has since left the communities deserted, with many families relocating to neighbouring towns.

Local sources described the atmosphere as tense and deserted, with shops closed and schools shut indefinitely over fears of a repeat attack. Parents have also reportedly withdrawn their children from other nearby schools as a precaution.

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Residents are now calling on the Oyo State Government and security agencies to urgently deploy personnel to the area, secure vulnerable communities, and rescue those still believed to be in captivity.

Community leaders have also appealed for the establishment of permanent security posts and improved surveillance in border and rural settlements, warning that continued attacks could further destabilize education and livelihoods in the region.

As of press time, authorities were yet to issue an official statement on the latest developments, while uncertainty continues to spread across the affected communities.