Lawmakers demand security overhaul after Oyo, Borno abductions

By Ifeyinwa Ike

The House of Representatives has urged urgent security reforms after a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao‑Akala condemning the May 16, 2025 attacks on three schools in Orire and Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

The House condemned the recent attacks on schools in Oyo State, where more than 30 pupils and teachers were abducted and a teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed while in captivity.

Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala described the Old Oyo National Park and surrounding forests as a major security concern, alleging that criminal groups use the area as a base for attacks across parts of the South-West.

Lawmakers commended ongoing rescue efforts and welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s approval of 1,000 forest guards,
calling for intensified operations to secure the release of those still in captivity.

The House also urged the establishment of a permanent military base in Oriire Local Government Area, enhanced security around the Old Oyo National Park, and the accelerated implementation of decentralised policing and intelligence-sharing mechanisms.

The house mandated committees on Defence, Interior, Police Affairs and National Security to monitor the progress and report back within 30 days. Members observed a one‑minute silence for the victims.

In a related development, lawmakers called for urgent action to secure the release of 42 schoolchildren abducted from Mussa Ward in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

The motion, sponsored by Hon. Midala Balami, highlighted the recurring attacks on schools in Borno State, including previous incidents in Chibok and Ngoshe, warning that persistent insecurity continues to disrupt education and traumatise affected communities.

The resolutions reflect growing concern among lawmakers over the safety of schools and vulnerable communities, as efforts continue to strengthen security measures and prevent future attacks across the country.