TMC urges Oyo govt to bolster security, prays for kidnap victims

THE Muslim Congress (TMC) has called on the Oyo State government to intensify efforts to tackle the growing security challenges in the state and ensure the safe release of pupils, teachers, and other victims abducted by suspected bandits in Oriire Local Government Area and other parts of Oke-Ogun.

The call was made during a special prayer programme organised by the state chapter of the organisation on Sunday at As-Sabaq Central Mosque, Bodija, Ibadan.

The event was dedicated to seeking divine intervention for lasting peace in the state and the safe return of kidnap victims still in captivity.

Speaking at the programme, the state coordinator (waali) of TMC, Ustadh Idris Muhammad, acknowledged the efforts of the government and security agencies towards securing the release of the abducted victims.

He, however, stressed that such efforts could only be considered successful when all the victims are rescued alive and reunited with their families.

He urged the government to strengthen the capacity of existing security agencies, rather than delegate security responsibilities to individuals or private groups, warning that such an approach could encourage the emergence of future armed groups.

Speaking with journalists after the prayer, Ustadh Idris, described the programme as the organisation’s contribution to the pursuit of peace and security in Oyo State.

He emphasised the need for proactive security measures capable of preventing attacks before they occur, rather than merely responding after incidents.

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The Secretary of TMC in Oyo State, Alhaji Daud Olaide Soliu, advised members of the organisation to suspend night-time and overnight programmes until the security situation improves.

According to him, the precautionary measure would help reduce security risks and prevent cases of mistaken identity.

Alhaji Soliu also conveyed the organisation’s condolences to traditional rulers in Oke-Ogun over the prevailing insecurity in the region.

He specifically sympathised with the Soun of Ogbomoso, the Onigbeti of Igbetiland and other monarchs while praying for the restoration of lasting peace across Oyo State.

Also speaking, the Leader of Ibadan North-East Local Government Legislative Council, Honourable Igbalajobi Adekola Abdul-Majeed, commended The Muslim Congress for organising the prayer programme at a critical time in the state’s security situation.

He urged residents to remain vigilant by promptly reporting suspicious movements and activities to the nearest police station.

He also advised the public to avoid unnecessary movement at night and encouraged those with the financial means to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras around their homes and neighbourhoods to strengthen surveillance and enhance community security.

In his remarks, the deputy state coordinator (radeeful waali) of TMC, Imam Sulaiman Abiola Adeyanju, maintained that human efforts alone cannot guarantee security.

He said effective security requires both practical measures and divine intervention, urging residents to continue praying to Almighty Allah while placing their trust solely in Him.

The special prayer programme featured a counselling session during which participants received guidance and support on personal, family and social challenges.