Anglican Bishop Calls on FG to Secure Release of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren, Teachers
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, Rt. Rev. James Odedeji, has appealed to the Federal Government to intensify efforts to rescue the pupils and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking on Sunday after the installation of Venerable Emmanuel Kolawole as the seventh Dean of the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral Church in Ikeja, Lagos, Odedeji expressed concern over the victims’ prolonged captivity, describing the situation as deeply troubling.
He said the abducted children and their teachers had remained in captivity for more than 50 days, urging the government to make their safe rescue a priority.
“The continued captivity of these children and their teachers is heartbreaking. Every possible effort should be made to secure their freedom without further delay,” the bishop said.
Odedeji also suggested that if local efforts prove insufficient, the Federal Government should consider seeking support from friendly nations with expertise in hostage rescue operations.
Reflecting on previous rescue missions involving foreign nationals in Nigeria, he said international collaboration could help bring the victims home safely.
During the church service, the bishop delivered a sermon titled “God Demands Total Obedience,” in which he encouraged Christians to remain faithful and submit completely to God’s will despite life’s challenges.
He described the newly installed dean as a committed and dependable minister, recalling how Kolawole had once contemplated leaving full-time ministry but later chose to continue after receiving encouragement and spiritual guidance.
According to Odedeji, the decision proved rewarding, as Kolawole went on to make significant contributions in several church assignments before his appointment as dean.
The bishop urged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, saying genuine obedience to God requires trust, humility and perseverance.
He also advised the new dean to focus on service and impact rather than titles, stressing that lasting influence is measured by faithful leadership and positive contributions to society.
