Oyo Assembly Rejects Talks With Bandits
The Oyo State House of Assembly has ruled out negotiations with the gunmen who abducted pupils, students and teachers during the attack on Ahoro-Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area.
Lawmakers instead called for stronger rescue efforts to secure the release of those still in captivity.
The resolution followed a motion presented by Oriire lawmaker Johnson Ogundele after the Assembly resumed from its Sallah break.
He recalled the May 15 attack that left a teacher, a student and a commercial motorcyclist dead while dozens of others were taken away by the attackers.
During the debate, members praised Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies for their response but demanded tougher measures.
They called for a permanent military base in Oriire, security audits of schools, improved protection for vulnerable communities and more support for Amotekun operatives.
Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin said engaging kidnappers would only encourage further attacks and strengthen criminal groups.
He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies while the government pursues rescue operations and other steps to improve safety across the state.
