The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has expressed concern over what it described as the slow response of government authorities to the rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The association, in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by its National President, Dr Samira Jibir, condemned the abduction, describing it as a barbaric act and a threat to the safety of learners and educational institutions across the country.

Jibir said NAPPS stood in solidarity with the victims and their families, while calling on the Federal and Oyo State Governments, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts toward the immediate rescue of the kidnapped teachers and pupils.

She also commended members of the association in the Ogbomoso District of Oyo State for shutting down their schools for several days and organising prayers for the safe release of the victims.

According to her, the actions of members complement ongoing engagements with government authorities and other stakeholders aimed at securing the freedom of the abducted teachers and pupils.

Jibir reaffirmed the association’s commitment to continued consultations with relevant stakeholders and pledged to pursue lawful advocacy measures to promote the safety of schoolchildren and strengthen security in schools nationwide.

She urged authorities at all levels to take decisive action to tackle insecurity and ensure adequate protection for learners, teachers and educational institutions across the country.