Security groups across the South West have called for urgent action from both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government over the recent wave of abductions in parts of Oyo State, warning that fear and uncertainty are spreading across affected communities.
The call was made by the South West Security Stakeholders Group, a coalition of 14 security focused organisations, following the abduction of victims in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area, as well as the kidnapping of dozens of pupils and teachers in Ogbomoso.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Ireti Adewole, the coalition said the worsening security situation in the state had become deeply troubling, especially with the continued captivity of victims and the growing anxiety among residents.
The group specifically urged both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts toward securing the release of Kuburat Omowumi and her son, who were abducted on June 16, 2026, in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area of the state.
It also raised concern over the earlier abduction of at least 42 pupils and teachers on May 15 from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, L.A. Primary School and Community Grammar School, Esiele, all in Ogbomoso.
According to the coalition, the inability of the authorities and security agencies to secure the release of Omowumi and her son has further heightened concerns about the safety of residents. It therefore called on the two levels of government to deploy every necessary resource and direct all relevant security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of all those still in captivity.
The group described the kidnapping of schoolchildren as a particularly disturbing crime, saying it not only disrupts education but also leaves families and entire communities traumatised. It stressed that rescue operations must be treated as a priority and that stronger steps must be taken to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
The South West Security Stakeholders Group said the incidents in Igbope and Ogbomoso reflect the wider security problems confronting the region. It noted that kidnapping, armed robbery and communal clashes have continued to affect economic activities, education and social stability across several communities.
The coalition called for a broader and more coordinated security strategy for the South West, one that would involve stronger policing at the state and local levels, improved intelligence sharing and closer collaboration among federal, state and local authorities, as well as private and community based security groups.
It also appealed directly to South West governors to work closely with the coalition and other grassroots security structures in order to strengthen security across the region.
Beyond enforcement, the group said governments must also confront the deeper issues fuelling insecurity, including poverty, unemployment and social exclusion.
The coalition includes the Oodua People’s Congress, Agbekoya Society, Agbekoya Peace Movement, Agbekoya Solidarity Movement, Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Professional Hunters Association of Nigeria, Odua Warriors, Vigilante Jahun, COMSAIC, Isokan Ile Oodua, Egbe Obinrin Oodua Agbaye and Omo Oduduwa United, among other security organisations.
The appeal comes amid growing concern over the rise in kidnapping cases in parts of Oyo State. While the Oyo State Government and security agencies have maintained that efforts to rescue the abducted victims are ongoing, authorities say details of the operations are being handled with caution so as not to jeopardise the safe release of those still being held.
