The Oyo State House of Assembly has expressed concern over the worsening security situation in border communities following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, even as the Oyo State Police Command dismissed reports claiming the victims had been flown to Kaduna State by helicopter.
The Speaker of the House, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, raised the concerns during a strategic meeting with the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abimbola Olugbenga, at the Police Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan.
The meeting was convened amid growing anxiety over the fate of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers, with security agencies intensifying efforts to secure their release.
Speaking after the meeting, Ogundoyin warned that porous borders and remote settlements across parts of Oke-Ogun and other communities had become safe havens for criminal elements.
According to him, many criminals exploit the difficult terrain and weak security presence in border communities to carry out kidnappings, attacks and other criminal activities.
He stressed the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and increased security patrols in vulnerable areas across the state.
“There is an urgent need to strengthen intelligence gathering, increase patrol operations and sustain proactive policing strategies to protect lives and property across Oyo State,” the Speaker said.
Ogundoyin also commended security agencies for their ongoing efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
“We appreciate the ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers. We remain confident in the commitment and professionalism of the security personnel handling the operation,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Police Command has debunked a viral social media report alleging that the abducted victims from Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities were transported to Kaduna State by helicopter.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the Command described the claim as false, misleading and completely unverified.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that the content of the said video is entirely false, unverified, misleading and devoid of any factual basis,” the statement said.
The police noted that the report lacked credibility and warned against the spread of misinformation capable of undermining ongoing rescue efforts.
According to the Command, intensive rescue operations are still underway in collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies.
“The Oyo State Police Command, in close collaboration with other security and intelligence agencies, has significantly intensified efforts aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of all abducted victims,” the statement added.
The police expressed concern over attempts by some individuals to circulate false information capable of creating panic and eroding public confidence in security operations.
“Such actions are not only irresponsible but also capable of creating unnecessary panic, misleading the public and obstructing security operations,” the Command stated.
The police further warned that anyone found spreading false information aimed at discrediting security agencies or disrupting rescue operations would face legal consequences.
Residents were urged to remain calm and rely only on information released through official channels, while the Command assured that all available resources were being deployed to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Both the Oyo State House of Assembly and the Police Command agreed on the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies, the executive arm of government and the legislature to effectively address emerging security challenges across the state.
