By Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) have dedicated their qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup to the abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Ibadan-based club made this known in a statement released on Tuesday, May 26, following their qualification for a continental tournament for the first time in 27 years.
3SC secured a place in the CAF Confederation Cup after finishing third on the log in the Nigeria Premier Football League 2025/2026 campaign. This achievement marked a major milestone for the club after years away from continental football.
However, despite the achievement, the club said the mood of celebration had been overshadowed by the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.
“Ordinarily, this would be a moment of celebration for our great club and the entire football family. However, our joy is deeply tempered by the heartbreaking reports of the abduction of school children and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State,” the statement read.
The club added that football goes beyond competition and should also serve as a symbol of unity and compassion during difficult moments.
“At times like this, football reminds us that beyond the game, we are one people and one community,” the statement added.
The management further dedicated the continental qualification to the victims currently in captivity while praying for their safe return.
“Shooting Stars Sports Club humbly dedicates this achievement to the innocent children and teachers currently in captivity, while offering heartfelt prayers for their safe and immediate return to their families and loved ones.”
The club also expressed solidarity with affected families and communities, noting that the entire Shooting Stars family shares in their pain and hopes for a joyful reunion soon.
AfrikTimes had earlier reported that on Friday, May 15, gunmen attacked schools in Yawota and Esinele in the Oriire Local Government Area, killing two people and abducting pupils and teachers. Another teacher, confirmed as Mr. Oyedokun, was also beheaded in the forest, leaving three dead in the abduction attack.
The Oyo State Police Command had since confirmed that rescue operations were ongoing while security agencies continue efforts to secure the release of the victims. It has been over 11 days since the abduction has occurred. The last known update came 8 days after when the Police Spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade, debunked reports claiming that the abducted victims have been rescued.
As of the time of this report, the police are yet to confirm if the gunmen had made contact with the security operatives or the government.
