Oyo Assembly Rejects Kidnapper Negotiations

The Nigeria — Lagos State House of Assembly rejected calls to negotiate with bandits who abducted teachers and students from Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15, 2026. The attack resulted in the deaths of a teacher, a student, and an okada rider, with dozens abducted. Lawmakers, led by Johnson Ogundele, called for intensified rescue operations, increased support for security agencies like the Amotekun, and the establishment of a permanent military base. They also urged the Ministry of Education to conduct security audits of schools, install security infrastructure, and develop emergency response protocols. Governor Seyi Makinde was commended for his swift response. Concerns were raised about recurring attacks, poor management of federal forest reserves, and the need for state police. Speaker Debo Ogundoyin emphasized that negotiating with criminals would embolden them and worsen insecurity. The Assembly also called for psychosocial support for affected families and legislative interventions.