Security Groups Demand Action Against Kidnappings in Oyo

Security groups in Southwest Nigeria, including the Oodua Peoples Congress and Agbekoya Society, have called on the federal government and Oyo State government to take urgent action regarding the recent abductions in the region. A statement from the coalition of 14 security organizations expressed deep concern over the ongoing kidnappings, which have heightened fear and insecurity among citizens.

The groups specifically referenced the abduction of 42 pupils and teachers from various schools in the Igbop community within Oorelope Local Government Area, Oyo State, on May 15, 2026. They condemned the failure of government security agencies to secure the release of the victims and urged both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts and deploy adequate resources to engage relevant security agencies for immediate rescue operations.

The statement emphasized that the kidnapping of school children is a heinous crime that disrupts education and traumatizes families and communities, calling for a comprehensive security strategy to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty and unemployment.