Lawmakers call for stronger security measures, permanent military presence and protection of schools in vulnerable communities.
The Oyo State House of Assembly has rejected calls for the state government to negotiate with bandits responsible for the abduction of teachers and students during the May 15 attack on Ahoro-Esiele, Oyo and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the lawmaker representing Oriire State Constituency, Johnson Ogundele, who expressed concern over the recurring wave of bandit attacks in the area. Lawmakers instead called for intensified rescue operations and stronger security interventions to secure the release of the victims and prevent further attacks on communities and schools.
During deliberations, members of the Assembly commended Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies for ongoing rescue efforts while advocating the establishment of a permanent military base in the area, improved security audits for schools, and the deployment of modern security infrastructure, including CCTV cameras, perimeter fencing and solar-powered lights.
The House also renewed calls for state police and increased support for the Amotekun Corps, arguing that local security outfits require better equipment and manpower to effectively tackle criminal gangs.
Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin firmly dismissed negotiations with kidnappers, warning that such a move could embolden criminal elements and encourage more abductions. He maintained that the focus should remain on intelligence gathering, coordinated security operations and the safe rescue of all victims still in captivity.