The National Association of Nigerian Students has called on the federal and Oyo State governments to intensify efforts to secure the rescue and safe return of students and teachers abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as the victims mark 55 days in captivity.

In a press release on July 9th, signed by NANS President Dist. Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, the association described the continued captivity as traumatic and tragic, urging security agencies to act with greater urgency.

"The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people," the statement read.

NANS said it had consistently spoken out since the abduction occurred, engaging the Oyo State Government, visiting the scene of the incident, commiserating with affected families and communities, and exploring the local security architecture to complement ongoing rescue efforts.

The association commended the Federal Government and security operatives for their efforts but maintained that more needed to be done.

"These abductors are not bigger than the country and do not possess the capacity to prevail over our collective resolve," the statement noted.

NANS warned that silence at this stage amounted to cruelty and complicity, stressing that the security of lives and property remained a fundamental responsibility of every government.

The association reiterated its commitment to advancing the welfare and security of Nigerian students and amplifying the concerns of those affected by the ongoing crisis.