The Egbe Omo Yoruba North America has criticised governors in Nigeria’s South-West region over what it described as their failure to effectively tackle growing insecurity, following the abduction of dozens of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
The group said the incident, which occurred in Oriire Local Government Area, underscored deepening security challenges in a region historically known for its commitment to education, peace and economic growth.
According to reports, on May 15, 2026, about 39 pupils and seven teachers were abducted by armed bandits from three schools in the Esiele and Yawota communities. The affected institutions include Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
Reacting to the development, the organisation expressed alarm over what it described as the increasing vulnerability of residents, particularly schoolchildren, to criminal attacks.
In a communiqué issued on Thursday following an emergency meeting of its National Executive Council, Egbe Omo Yoruba North America said the kidnapping raised serious questions about the effectiveness of security measures across the South-West.
The group lamented what it termed the inability of political leaders to guarantee the safety of citizens, arguing that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.
It further warned that the continued deterioration of security could undermine public confidence in governance and threaten the region’s reputation as a hub of learning, commerce and social stability.
The organisation called on state governments and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure schools and communities, while urging authorities to take decisive action against criminal elements operating within the region.
