The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, has called for the adoption of technology-driven security strategies to address kidnapping and other organized crimes in Oyo State.
Reaction to Recent Abductions
Olajide made this appeal in response to recent abduction incidents in Oriire Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly kidnapped pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools. In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha, the lawmaker expressed condolences to the families of the victims and solidarity with the Oyo State government and people over what he described as a troubling security challenge.
Call for Digital Intelligence
He emphasized that security agencies and stakeholders must urgently implement digital intelligence and coordinated surveillance systems capable of tracking and dismantling criminal networks operating within the state. “As Chairman of the House Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, we have mandated relevant communications and digital security agencies to work closely with security operatives in tracking communication channels, digital footprints and operational networks of these criminal elements,” Olajide stated.
Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, noted that modern criminal groups increasingly rely on telecommunications infrastructure, anonymous digital platforms, and coordinated communication systems to execute their operations. He stressed that addressing current security threats requires intelligence-led and technology-driven responses that go beyond conventional policing methods.
Proposed Technological Measures
The lawmaker advocated for the deployment of digital surveillance systems, geo-location intelligence, call pattern analysis, real-time communication monitoring, and inter-agency digital collaboration to improve crime detection and prevention. He also called for stronger collaboration among telecommunications operators, cybersecurity agencies, intelligence units, and local security formations to enhance early warning systems and rapid response mechanisms in vulnerable communities.
According to him, technology remains one of the most effective tools for combating kidnapping and organized crime. He urged all levels of government to invest aggressively in smart security infrastructure and digital intelligence gathering. “Oyo State must remain safe and secure for all. We cannot allow criminal gangs and kidnappers infiltrate our communities and threaten the peace our people have continued to enjoy,” Olajide stated.
Appeal to Residents
He urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and operations. The lawmaker assured residents that efforts are underway to strengthen the state's security architecture and ensure that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.
