SSSG seeks stronger security response as Oyo kidnap victims remain in captivity

The Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG) has called on the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of kidnapped victims in Igbope, Oorelope Local Government Area, and the abducted schoolchildren in Ahoro-Esinele, Ogbomoso.

In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Ireti Adewole, the coalition of 14 security-related organisations expressed concern over the continued captivity of the victims, warning that the incidents have heightened fear and insecurity in the affected communities.

The group recalled that Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi and her son were abducted in Igbope on June 16, 2026, an incident that drew widespread concern across Oyo State and the Southwest.

Although the Oyo State Police Command had pledged to work with other security agencies to secure the victims’ release, the SSSG noted that they remain in captivity.

The coalition urged both the federal government and the Oyo State Government to deploy more resources and strengthen collaboration among security agencies to ensure the immediate rescue of the victims.

The group also expressed concern over the abduction of schoolchildren in Ahoro-Esinele, Ogbomoso, describing the incident as a serious threat to education and public safety.

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“The kidnapping of schoolchildren is a particularly heinous crime that disrupts education and traumatises families and communities. Government must prioritise their rescue operations and ensure that such incidents do not recur,” the statement said.

According to the SSSG, the recent wave of kidnappings in Igbope and Ogbomoso underscores the broader security challenges confronting the Southwest.

It noted that kidnappings, armed robbery and communal clashes have continued to undermine economic activities, education and social cohesion across the region.

The coalition called for a comprehensive regional security strategy anchored on improved intelligence sharing, stronger collaboration among federal, state and local authorities, community-based policing and greater involvement of grassroots security outfits.

It also appealed to Southwest governors to work closely with the SSSG and other grassroots security organisations to strengthen security across the region.

The group further urged governments at all levels to address the underlying causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment and social marginalisation.

The SSSG comprises the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Professional Hunters Association of Nigeria, Odua Warriors, Vigilante Jahun, COMSAIC, Isokan Ile Oodua, Egbe Obinrin Oodua Agbaye, Omo Oduduwa United, and Agbekoya groups, including the Agbekoya Peace Movement and Agbekoya Solidarity Movement, among other organisations.