Egbe Omo Yoruba North America has strongly criticized governors of the South-West region over the deteriorating security situation, which recently led to the abduction of elementary school pupils in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, among other incidents. The group is calling for a complete overhaul of the security architecture to address the escalating cases of kidnappings, attacks on schools, and other violent crimes.
Growing Insecurity in Yorubaland
The group expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity across Yorubaland. Its National President, Dr. Ayodeji Famuyide, stated that the kidnapping of innocent schoolchildren has exposed significant weaknesses in governance, intelligence gathering, and security coordination. He noted that the incident has heightened fears among residents and raised serious questions about the authorities' ability to guarantee citizen safety, particularly for children who should be protected in educational environments.
Famuyide lamented that a region historically known for educational excellence, peaceful coexistence, and economic development is increasingly becoming vulnerable to criminal activities that instill fear in communities.
Criticism of State Governments
He particularly criticized what he described as the complacency of state governments in responding to recurring kidnap incidents, killings, and attacks on rural communities. Famuyide warned that public confidence in political leadership is gradually eroding as citizens continue to face security threats despite repeated assurances from government officials.
“We are alarmed at the attitude and complacency of leaders who are constitutionally responsible for protecting lives and property,” he said. “Many people are beginning to lose faith in the capacity of political authorities to provide adequate security.”
Recommendations for Action
As part of the group's recommendations, Famuyide called on the Oyo State Government to intensify rescue efforts and deploy all available security resources to ensure the safe and unconditional release of the abducted pupils. He urged governors across the South-West zone to strengthen regional collaboration through a coordinated security framework that would enhance intelligence sharing, improve operational effectiveness, and address the growing menace of abductions and banditry.
Famuyide also urged the federal government to strengthen security operations and provide adequate protection for citizens nationwide, especially in areas facing persistent threats from criminal groups. He renewed calls for the establishment of state police, describing it as a critical reform that would improve local security management and ensure quicker responses to emerging threats.
