Afenifere Raises Alarm Over Oyo Schoolgirls’ Abduction, Urges South-West Governors to Act Fast

By Tgnews Reporter

The United Kingdom/Europe chapter of Afenifere has called on governors in Nigeria’s South-West region to take urgent and coordinated action to prevent a worsening security situation following the abduction of schoolgirls and their teachers in Oyo State.

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, popularly known as UK Afenifere, warned that the region’s long-standing reputation as one of the country’s most peaceful zones could be threatened if decisive measures are not taken to address emerging security challenges.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in London by its Secretary, Engr. Anthony Ajayi, the group described the abduction of the schoolchildren and teachers in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026, as deeply troubling and capable of eroding public confidence in the safety of communities and educational institutions.

Rescue Efforts Must Continue

Afenifere urged security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of the abducted victims, stressing that every available resource should be deployed until the schoolgirls and their teachers are reunited with their families.

The group expressed optimism that ongoing efforts by security operatives would yield positive results, while commending personnel involved in the rescue mission.

“We believe every effort should be directed towards ensuring the safe release of the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers. Security must remain above politics, and the South-West must not be allowed to become a theatre of insecurity,” the statement said.

The organisation appealed to governors of the six South-West states to strengthen intelligence gathering, deepen inter-agency collaboration, invest in community policing initiatives, and enhance surveillance around schools and other vulnerable public facilities.

According to the group, protecting lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of government, adding that robust security measures would reassure residents, restore confidence, and deter criminal activities.

It also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and local vigilante groups to work closely with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence capable of preventing future attacks.

Concerns Over Regional Stability

UK Afenifere noted that the South-West has historically maintained relative peace compared to other parts of the country and warned against allowing criminal elements to gain a foothold in the region.

The group stressed that sustained investment in security infrastructure and proactive policing would be critical to preserving stability and protecting educational institutions from attacks.

The organisation also alleged that the abduction may have political undertones aimed at damaging the image of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Despite the allegation, Afenifere cautioned Nigerians against politicising security matters, insisting that the priority should remain the safe rescue of the victims and the apprehension of those responsible.

The group further urged residents across the South-West to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement agencies, and promptly report suspicious activities within their communities.

Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of Yoruba interests, UK Afenifere maintained that safeguarding lives, schools, and communities must remain a top priority for governments across the region.