Traditional religious adherents in Abeokuta, Ogun State, have undertaken a series of spiritual rites and prayers seeking divine intervention for the safe release of more than 40 pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The spiritual exercise, held nearly three weeks after the abduction, was led by Dr. Omolara Fashola MacGregor, wife of the Olu of Orile Ilawo, Oba (Prof.) Alexander Olusegun MacGregor, alongside other traditional worshippers.
As part of the exercise, the group visited several sacred sites across Abeokuta, including the renowned Olumo Rock, where prayers and traditional supplications were offered on behalf of the victims.
The gathering, which took place at an ancestral shrine in the Ogun State capital, reflected growing concern over the attack on the schools in mid May. The incident reportedly claimed the life of an assistant headmaster and led to the abduction of dozens of pupils and educational workers.
Clad in traditional regalia representing their religious heritage, the worshippers carried out various rites involving prayers, libations and spiritual invocations. The ceremony focused on seeking protection for the captives, their safe return, and justice against those responsible for the abductions.
Addressing participants during the event, Olori MacGregor said the spiritual intervention was necessary given the persistent security challenges confronting communities and vulnerable citizens across the country.
“The cries of these innocent school children have reached the heavens,” she said.
“We are invoking the spirit of our ancestors and the potent deities of our land to go into the deepest forests. May those who have taken these children find no sleep, no peace, and no safety until every single child and teacher is returned unharmed.”
The ceremony drew expressions of sympathy for the victims and their families, while participants emphasized the need for collective efforts, both spiritual and practical, to secure the release of those still in captivity.
The abducted pupils and teachers remain in captivity as authorities continue efforts to secure their freedom.
