By Olawale Ogunbusola, Ibadan

Accord candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Wale Ajani, has demanded the immediate rescue of 39 students and seven teachers abducted 28 days ago in Oriire Local Government Area.

The victims were kidnapped on May 15 when armed men attacked one secondary school and two primary schools in Ahoro Esinle community, Oriire district.

In a statement issued Wednesday to mark Democracy Day, Ajani said there was “little to celebrate” in Oyo State while the victims remained in captivity.

“This is not the meaning of June 12,” Ajani said. “How can we speak of democracy and freedom when 39 students and seven teachers have been in captivity since May 15? This is painful. This is shameful. This is intolerable.”

He described the prolonged captivity as a “human catastrophe” and a direct attack on education and human dignity.

Ajani called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, and security agencies to act with urgency to ensure the safe rescue of all abducted persons.

“For 28 days, families have cried. For 28 days, parents have waited. For 28 days, fear has ruled where peace should reign. This is a stain on our humanity,” he said.

The Accord candidate urged community leaders, religious bodies, civil society groups, and the media to sustain pressure until the victims are rescued.

“Until these children and teachers regain their freedom, this Democracy Day remains incomplete,” he added.