The Think Yoruba First (TYF) Organisation has called for stronger security measures around schools, rural communities and major transportation routes following the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and security agencies for securing the release of the victims, the group urged authorities not to lose sight of the lives lost during the incident and the trauma suffered by the victims, their families and affected communities.

In a statement, TYF said the tragic episode underscored the urgent need for enhanced security around educational institutions and vulnerable communities to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The organisation noted that although the rescue operation represented a significant achievement, more work remained to be done to guarantee the safety of schoolchildren and teachers across the country.

“Every child should be safe and secure in their learning environment, and every teacher deserves to carry out the noble responsibility of imparting knowledge without fear of violence, intimidation or abduction,” the statement said.

TYF reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at improving security and restoring lasting peace, stressing the need for increased investment in intelligence gathering, community-based security collaboration and the protection of schools.

The group maintained that sustained efforts by government and security agencies were necessary to address the root causes of insecurity and strengthen public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.

It also expressed sympathy with families who lost loved ones during the incident and called for justice against those responsible for the crime.

The organisation, however, praised the coordinated efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and security agencies, which it said led to the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers after weeks in captivity.

TYF urged authorities to build on the success of the rescue operation by implementing long-term measures that would ensure schools remain safe environments for learning and development.