The lawmaker representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has called for decisive security measures to address the growing wave of kidnappings in Oyo State, insisting that the immediate rescue of abducted victims should take precedence over protests and political distractions.

Alli, in a statement issued on Tuesday in Ibadan, expressed sympathy to families of kidnap victims across the state and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe and unconditional release of all abductees.
The senator described the rising incidence of kidnapping and other violent crimes as disturbing, warning that the development was fueling fear and anxiety among residents and undermining public confidence in the government’s ability to protect lives and property.

According to him, the protection of citizens remains the primary responsibility of government, stressing that authorities must respond with urgency and determination to the worsening security situation.
He said the immediate focus should be on implementing coordinated security strategies capable of dismantling criminal networks and preventing further attacks, rather than creating the impression of helplessness in the face of insecurity.

“The safety of lives and property is a fundamental obligation of government. At a time when many families are traumatised by the abduction of their loved ones, every effort should be directed toward strengthening security operations and ensuring the safe return of victims,” he said.
Alli urged the state government and relevant security agencies to prioritise intelligence gathering, surveillance and rapid-response operations, while ensuring that those responsible for criminal activities are apprehended and prosecuted.

He also advocated greater investment in security infrastructure and operational assets, noting that the evolving nature of criminality requires modern and proactive approaches to law enforcement.
While acknowledging the constitutional right of citizens to engage in peaceful protests, the APC chieftain maintained that urgent security interventions aimed at rescuing victims and restoring public confidence should receive greater attention.

According to him, no responsible government should place a higher premium on the implications of protests when residents are confronted with serious security threats.
“All legitimate efforts should be channelled towards ending the scourge of kidnapping and guaranteeing the safety of our people,” he added.

The senator reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that would enhance security and promote lasting peace across Oyo State.
He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing rescue operations and broader efforts to combat criminality.

Alli offered prayers for the safe return of all abducted persons and expressed hope that ongoing security operations would yield positive results in the shortest possible time.