Faced with uncertainty over efforts by security forces, residents of Esin-Ele community in Oyo State have intensified spiritual efforts to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers, as traditional leaders publicly invoked ancestral powers against the kidnappers holding the victims captive.

In a development that has stirred reactions across social media and within the community, the Onisa of Esin-Ele, Muraina Mutairo, was seen leading traditional rites and invoking the gods of the land to pursue the abductors and ensure the safe return of the victims.

The monarch, surrounded by traditional worshippers, hunters and residents, reportedly called on the deities of Yoruba land to “fight” those responsible for the abduction and frustrate their operations until the captives regain freedom.

Videos and photos circulating online showed the traditional ruler performing spiritual rites in what residents described as a desperate response to the worsening security situation and the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the fate of the victims.

The abduction, which has thrown the community into fear and mourning, reportedly involved schoolchildren and teachers who were intercepted by armed men along a rural route in the area.

Community sources said parents and relatives of the victims have remained traumatised, while local vigilantes and hunters continue bush-combing operations in nearby forests believed to be possible hideouts of the kidnappers.

One elder in the community said the spiritual intervention became necessary because the people believe security efforts alone may not be enough.

“Our forefathers protected this land before modern policing came. We believe the gods will expose those behind this evil and force them to release the children and teachers unharmed,” the source said.

The incident has further renewed concerns over rising insecurity across parts of Oyo State and the growing vulnerability of rural communities and schools to kidnapping attacks.

Meanwhile, residents have continued to appeal to the Oyo State Government and security agencies to intensify rescue operations and strengthen surveillance across rural corridors to prevent further attacks.

As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official confirmation on whether any of the abducted victims had regained freedom. (Osun Defender)