Adebo Ogundoyin, the speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, has cautioned against calls for negotiations with the abductors of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire LGA, warning that yielding to kidnappers’ demands could encourage further attacks.
Speaking during plenary on Wednesday, the lawmaker said the public may not be aware of the conditions being demanded by the abductors and urged caution in discussions about negotiations.
His remarks come amid growing pressure on the government to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted by terrorists during attacks on schools in Ahoro-Esinele community in Oriire LGA.
Ogundoyin said authorities are doing everything necessary to ensure the victims are rescued safely.
He questioned whether those advocating negotiations would be willing to accept demands that could compromise public safety and national security.
“If it was up to you, would you negotiate with terrorists if terrorists ask for weapons, they ask for money, they ask for concession of future laws of this land as part of their ransom?” he asked.
“Would you accept for those people to be integrated into that community? We don’t know the details.”
The speaker urged residents to remain calm and allow security agencies to continue their efforts.
“Please, let’s be sensitive and calm. You do not know the details,” he said.
Ogundoyin warned that conceding to kidnappers could have long-term consequences for the country’s security.
“The more you negotiate with these people, the more you are going to embolden them,” he said.
