The Oyo State House of Assembly has firmly rejected suggestions to negotiate with bandits responsible for the abduction of teachers and students in the Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area. Lawmakers instead called for immediate security audits of schools located near forests and border settlements across the state.
Lawmakers Demand Security Measures
During a plenary session, the assembly urged the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, and the State Universal Basic Education Board to conduct comprehensive security assessments in vulnerable schools. The motion, moved by Johnson Ogundele, representative of Oriire State Constituency, highlighted the growing insecurity in the area.
The lawmakers also called for intensified rescue operations to secure the release of the abducted victims. They emphasized the need for solar-powered security lights, perimeter fencing, and CCTV cameras in at-risk schools, as well as a comprehensive Safe School Emergency Response Protocol for both public and private institutions.
Rejection of Negotiation
The assembly explicitly rejected any suggestions that the state government should negotiate with the bandits. Majority Leader Sanjo Adedoyin, who seconded the motion, reiterated the importance of not compromising with criminals.
Adedoyin also called for the establishment of state police, urging the federal government to remove obstacles delaying its creation. He stressed that community-level security is essential to prevent future attacks.
Government Response and Debunked Claims
Earlier, the Oyo state government debunked a viral video claiming the release of the kidnapped pupils and teachers. Commissioner Oyelade warned against misleading information that could cause confusion among families, assuring that discreet efforts were underway to secure the victims' release.
Governor Seyi Makinde provided updates on security efforts, noting ongoing federal-state collaboration to coordinate operations for rescuing the abducted individuals. Residents were urged to remain calm as authorities worked tirelessly for the safe return of students and teachers.
