Egbe Omo Yoruba North America has faulted governors of the South-West region over the worsening security situation in the zone, which resulted in the recent abduction of elementary school pupils in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, among others.

The group advocated a comprehensive overhaul of the security architecture to stem the rising tide of kidnaps, attacks on schools and other violent crimes.

Expressing deep concern over the growing insecurity across Yorubaland, the group’s National President, Dr. Ayodeji Famuyide, said the kidnapping of innocent schoolchildren had exposed significant weaknesses in governance, intelligence gathering and security coordination.

According to him, the incident has heightened fears among residents and raised serious questions about the ability of the authorities to guarantee the safety of citizens, particularly children who should be protected within educational environments.

He lamented that a region historically known for educational excellence, peaceful coexistence and economic development was increasingly becoming vulnerable to criminal activities that instill fear among communities.

Famuyide particularly criticised what he described as the complacency of state governments in responding to recurring kidnap incidents, killings and attacks on rural communities, warning that public confidence in political leadership was gradually eroding as citizens continue to face security threats in spite of repeated assurances from government officials.

“We are alarmed at the attitude and complacency of leaders who are constitutionally responsible for protecting lives and property,” he said. “Many people are beginning to lose faith in the capacity of political authorities to provide adequate security.”

As part of the group’s recommendations, Famuyide called on the Oyo State Government to intensify rescue efforts and deploy all available security resources toward ensuring the safe and unconditional release of the abducted pupils.

He urged governors across the South-West zone to strengthen regional collaboration through a coordinated security framework that would enhance intelligence sharing, improve operational effectiveness and address the growing menace of abductions and banditry.

Famuyide also urged the federal government to strengthen security operations and provide adequate protection for citizens across the country, especially in areas facing persistent threats from criminal groups. He renewed calls for the establishment of state police, describing it as a critical reform that would improve local security management and ensure quicker responses to emerging threats.