"We Must Not Move On Until They Are Free"
Nigerian social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has intensified his campaign over the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in Oyo State by calling for a nationwide boycott of public schools.
The controversial activist appealed in a viral video, expressing frustration over what he described as a recurring pattern in Nigeria where citizens quickly forget major tragedies and move on without sustained pressure on authorities.
According to VDM, the kidnapping of innocent pupils and teachers should remain a national priority until every victim is safely rescued.
The Oyo Kidnapping Crisis
The call comes amid growing concern over the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, a case that has generated widespread public outrage.
In recent weeks, disturbing reports and videos linked to the victims have circulated online, with many Nigerians expressing fears over their safety and criticizing the pace of rescue efforts.
The incident has also sparked debates about insecurity in schools, the safety of teachers, and the government's response to kidnapping cases across the country.
VDM's Nationwide Boycott Proposal
As a show of solidarity with the victims and their families, VDM urged public school teachers across Nigeria to temporarily withdraw their services until the kidnapped individuals regain their freedom.
He also appealed directly to parents, asking them to keep their children at home as a symbolic protest aimed at drawing national attention to the crisis.
According to him, collective action from teachers, parents, and students would send a powerful message that Nigerians refuse to ignore the suffering of those still being held captive.
Mixed Reactions Online
VDM's proposal has triggered intense debate across social media platforms.
Supporters argue that a nationwide boycott could increase pressure on authorities to prioritize the rescue operation and demonstrate national unity with the affected families.
Critics, however, contend that shutting down schools could further disrupt education for millions of students and may not necessarily accelerate the release of the victims.
Others have questioned whether such a boycott is practical, while acknowledging that VDM's comments have once again brought national attention back to the plight of the abducted teachers and pupils.
A Growing Campaign
The school boycott call is the latest in a series of statements made by VDM regarding the Oyo kidnapping crisis.
In recent days, he has repeatedly criticized government officials over their handling of the situation, demanded stronger action from security agencies, and warned against allowing the issue to fade from public discussion.
His latest intervention reinforces his position that the country must maintain pressure on authorities until the kidnapped teachers and students are safely reunited with their families.
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