By Our Correspondent

National News – The Oyo State House of Assembly has rejected calls for the state government to negotiate with bandits responsible for the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.

Lawmakers instead urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and ensure the safe return of all victims.

The resolution was adopted during plenary after a motion of urgent public importance was presented by the lawmaker representing Oriire State Constituency, Johnson Ogundele.

The discussion focused on the growing security challenges in parts of the local government area following the May 15, 2026 school attack.

According to the Assembly, armed bandits invaded Ahoro-Esiele, Oyo and Yawota communities during school hours, killing a teacher, a student and a commercial motorcycle rider before abducting several students, pupils and teachers.

The lawmakers expressed concern over the increasing wave of attacks that has affected residents since the beginning of the year.

Ogundele commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his swift response, deployment of security personnel and support for rescue operations.

He also called for the establishment of a permanent military base in vulnerable communities and forest corridors to strengthen security.

The Assembly urged the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and the State Universal Basic Education Board to conduct security audits of schools located near forests and border communities.

Lawmakers also recommended the installation of solar-powered security lights, perimeter fencing and CCTV cameras in vulnerable schools.

During the debate, members renewed calls for state police, arguing that local security challenges require stronger community-based policing.

They also advocated increased recruitment and better equipment for Amotekun Corps operatives.

Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin firmly rejected negotiations with kidnappers, stating that such actions could encourage further criminal activities.

He stressed that intelligence gathering, coordinated security operations and rescue missions remain the best approach to securing the release of the victims.

The Assembly further directed its Committee on Security and Strategy to visit Oriire Local Government Area and recommend urgent measures to prevent future attacks on schools and communities.