Oyo School Abduction: Makinde Demands State Police Amid Rising School Security Threats
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has renewed his call for the creation of state police following the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area.
The governor made the remarks during a political gathering in Ibadan, days after armed attackers invaded three schools and abducted students and teachers. The incident has intensified concerns over child safety in schools across the state.
Makinde described the current security situation as deeply troubling. He said the state continues to face emotional strain as rescue efforts progress.
He stressed that Nigeria’s security structure needs urgent reform. According to him, state governments must have stronger authority over policing within their jurisdictions.
The governor argued that state police would improve rapid response to threats affecting children and communities. He insisted that relying solely on federal policing slows down emergency intervention.
Makinde recalled that Oyo State previously introduced Amotekun as a regional security response. He said the initiative emerged after failed attempts to establish state-controlled policing structures.
He also urged lawmakers to empower state assemblies to establish state police units directly. This, he said, would reduce delays and strengthen protection for vulnerable groups, especially schoolchildren.
Meanwhile, child protection concerns continue to grow following the Oriire abductions. Advocacy groups warn that repeated attacks on schools are disrupting education and exposing children to long-term psychological harm.
Security experts say schools in rural areas remain highly vulnerable. They recommend stronger protection frameworks, including early warning systems and trained community responders.
The governor reaffirmed that security remains a core focus of his administration under the Omituntun agenda. He added that efforts to improve safety and education will continue.
In a related context, Makinde previously expressed sympathy to families affected by the abductions during Children’s Day commemorations. He assured residents that rescue operations are still ongoing.
Child rights stakeholders say the crisis highlights urgent gaps in school safeguarding systems. They insist that children’s right to education cannot be protected without guaranteed physical safety.
As rescue operations continue, families across affected communities remain anxious. Authorities have not yet confirmed the full status of the abducted pupils and teachers.
