Oyo Speaker Rules Out Talks with Bandits Over Abducted Pupils and Teachers

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, has rejected calls for the state government to negotiate with bandits responsible for the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The Assembly made its position known during a plenary session following a motion of urgent public importance presented by the lawmaker representing Oriire Constituency, Johnson Ogundele. Lawmakers instead called for intensified security operations and rescue efforts to secure the release of all victims.

The kidnappings occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed bandits attacked communities including Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota during school hours. According to reports, a teacher, a student, and a commercial motorcyclist were killed, while dozens of pupils, students, and teachers were abducted.

Speaking after the Assembly’s resolutions were adopted, Ogundoyin warned that negotiating with kidnappers could encourage further attacks and strengthen criminal groups. He stressed that the government’s focus should remain on intelligence gathering, coordinated rescue missions, and sustained security operations aimed at securing the safe release of the victims.

The Assembly also urged Governor Seyi Makinde to deploy additional security personnel to affected communities, support rescue operations, and establish a permanent military presence in vulnerable areas. Lawmakers further recommended security audits for schools located near forests and border settlements, as well as the installation of solar-powered lights, perimeter fencing, and CCTV cameras in vulnerable schools.

In addition, the House renewed calls for the establishment of state police and directed its Committee on Security and Strategy to assess the situation in Oriire and recommend further measures to improve security across the state.

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to protecting schools and communities and pledged support for all efforts aimed at preventing future attacks and ensuring the safe return of those still in captivity.