I’m The Omituntun Initiative in the Diaspora has commended Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over what it described as his swift and decisive handling of the recent abduction of students and teachers in Ogbomoso, Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The group also voiced its backing for Executive Order 001 of 2026 recently issued by the governor, aimed at improving the coordination and regulation of local security operations as well as strengthening the protection of lives and property across the state.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by its spokesperson, Ayotomiwa Adebayo, the diaspora organisation said Makinde had demonstrated responsible leadership by placing priority on public safety and taking proactive steps in response to emerging security threats.
“At a time when the nation is grappling with complex security challenges, Governor Makinde’s swift response reflects the firm and decisive leadership required in moments like this,” the statement said.
The group said it had been closely following developments surrounding the abduction and praised the combined efforts of the state government, security agencies, and other stakeholders working toward the rescue of the victims.
Describing the incident as distressing, the organisation noted that it had sparked widespread concern among Nigerians both at home and abroad.
uIt also expressed solidarity with the affected families, schools, and residents of Oyo State, insisting that every necessary measure must be taken to secure the safe return of the abducted students and teachers.
OID further commended the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies involved in the ongoing rescue operation, urging them to intensify efforts to ensure the arrest of those responsible.
It maintained that all individuals connected to criminal activities, including sponsors and collaborators, should be prosecuted regardless of their status or background.
The group warned that the increasing wave of kidnappings, school attacks, and other violent crimes continues to pose a serious threat to national stability, development, and public trust in security institutions.
It therefore called on the Federal Government to strengthen its response to insecurity through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, increased funding for security operations, and the adoption of modern technology.
“The protection of lives and property must remain a top priority of the government to ensure that the country is safe for all.
Nigerians deserve to live and go about their daily activities without fear of terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality,” the statement said.
The organisation also advocated for the creation of state police, stronger border security, and greater investment in technology-driven solutions to address evolving security threats across the country.
According to the group, tackling insecurity effectively will require cooperation among all levels of government, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads, and citizens.
“It is evident that these acts of banditry are placing immense pressure on the nation’s unity, peace and security.
We urge all Nigerians to unite against banditry, which has become a common enemy and a grave threat to national stability,” the statement stated.
The organisation expressed optimism that ongoing rescue efforts would lead to the safe return of the abducted students and teachers, reaffirming its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, unity, and sustainable development in Oyo State and across Nigeria.