The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, has called for the deployment of technology-driven security strategies to combat kidnapping and other organised crimes in Oyo State.

Olajide made the call while reacting to the recent abduction incidents in Oriire Local Government Area of the state, where gunmen reportedly kidnapped pupils and teachers during coordinated attacks on schools.

In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha, the lawmaker commiserated with families of victims and expressed solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State over what he described as a disturbing security challenge.

According to him, security agencies and relevant stakeholders must urgently adopt digital intelligence and coordinated surveillance systems capable of tracking and dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.

“As Chairman of the House Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, we have mandated relevant communications and digital security agencies to work closely with security operatives in tracking communication channels, digital footprints and operational networks of these criminal elements,” he said.

Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, noted that modern criminal groups now rely heavily on telecommunications infrastructure, anonymous digital platforms and coordinated communication systems to execute their operations.

He stressed that addressing current security threats requires intelligence-led and technology-driven responses beyond conventional policing methods.

The lawmaker advocated the deployment of digital surveillance systems, geo-location intelligence, call pattern analysis, real-time communication monitoring and inter-agency digital collaboration to improve crime detection and prevention.

He also called for stronger collaboration among telecommunications operators, cybersecurity agencies, intelligence units and local security formations to enhance early warning systems and rapid response mechanisms in vulnerable communities.

According to him, technology remains one of the most effective tools for combating kidnapping and organised crime, urging government at all levels to invest aggressively in smart security infrastructure and digital intelligence gathering.

“Oyo State must remain safe and secure for all. We cannot allow criminal gangs and kidnappers infiltrate our communities and threaten the peace our people have continued to enjoy,” Olajide stated.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information capable of aiding ongoing investigations and operations.

The lawmaker, however, assured residents that efforts were ongoing to strengthen the state’s security architecture and ensure that perpetrators of criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.