The House of Representatives has called for the immediate implementation of state policing and other structural security reforms following the tragic kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The incident, which also resulted in the killing of teacher Michael Oyedokun by his captors, has prompted urgent legislative action.
Motion of Urgent Public Importance
The call came after a Motion of Urgent Public Importance sponsored by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, who highlighted the deteriorating security situation in Ogbomoso and Orire as a growing threat to the South-West and Nigeria at large. During plenary presided over by Speaker Abass Tajudeen, Alao-Akala recounted the May 16, 2025 attack on Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Esiele, and L.A. Primary School, where more than 30 pupils and teachers were abducted by armed bandits in broad daylight.
The lawmaker expressed deep grief over the murder of mathematics teacher Michael Oyedokun, who was reportedly beheaded while in captivity. He described the act as barbaric and one that has shocked the nation's conscience. Alao-Akala noted that many families in the affected communities remain traumatized, as some victims are still in captivity, and every passing hour increases the danger to their lives.
Security Challenges and Previous Recommendations
While acknowledging efforts by security agencies and President Bola Tinubu's approval of 1,000 forest guards for the area, Alao-Akala stressed that urgent and more far-reaching measures are required to prevent further attacks. He pointed out that the vast forest areas around the Old Oyo National Park, which borders Kwara State and connects to international routes, have become operational corridors for criminal groups, making the Orire axis vulnerable to recurring attacks.
The House noted that it had previously adopted recommendations advocating a decentralized security architecture, including the establishment of state police, local government policing units, decentralized courts, and integrated intelligence systems. Lawmakers argued that Nigeria's current centralized policing structure has struggled to effectively address localized security challenges across different parts of the country.
Resolutions Passed
Following deliberations, the House resolved to urge the Federal Government and all security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the remaining abducted pupils and teachers without further delay. The House also called for the establishment of a permanent military Forward Operating Base in Orire Local Government Area to provide sustained security coverage across the Old Oyo National Park and surrounding communities.
In addition, lawmakers demanded the immediate commencement of the implementation of the National Assembly's recommendations on decentralized security reforms, including state police, local government policing units, decentralized courts, and a coordinated national intelligence and surveillance framework. The House further mandated its Committees on Defence, Interior, Police Affairs, and National Security to jointly monitor the implementation of the resolutions and submit a progress report within 30 days.
A minute of silence was also observed in honor of Michael Oyedokun, other victims of the Orire attack, victims of kidnapping and banditry across the country, and security personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
