* Urges FG, states to tighten security around schools
* Calls for improved intelligence gathering to prevent future attacks
* Seeks trauma counselling, psycho-social support for victims
The Organisation of Tadhamunul Muslimeen (OTM) Nigeria and Diaspora has called on the Federal and State Governments to strengthen security around schools, improve intelligence gathering and implement sustainable measures to protect pupils, teachers and educational institutions from future attacks.
The organisation made the call while welcoming the successful rescue of 44 abducted pupils, teachers and school officials who regained their freedom after being kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
OTM described the successful rescue as a major relief to the families of the victims, the affected schools and the entire people of Oyo State, saying the development has restored hope after days of anxiety and uncertainty.
Muslim News gathered that the victims regained their freedom on July 10, 2026, following coordinated rescue operations by Nigerian security agencies after spending days in captivity.
The position was contained in a statement issued by the National Secretary of the Organisation of Tadhamunul Muslimeen, Alhaji Jamiu Aleem, on behalf of the organisation led by its National President, Prof. Qaasim Badmaasi.
In the statement, Alhaji Aleem expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah and congratulated the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government led by Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State on the successful rescue operation.
According to him, the successful rescue had brought immense relief to the victims’ families and restored confidence among school communities that had been gripped by fear since the abduction.
The organisation recalled that the victims were abducted during coordinated attacks on Community High School, Ahoro Esinle, Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School and L A Primary School, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The attacks triggered widespread anxiety among parents, teachers, education stakeholders and residents, with many expressing concern over the growing insecurity around schools.
Among those abducted were the Principal of Community High School, Mrs. Alamu Folawe, the Vice Principal, Mr. Ojo Jonathan, Mr. Olatunde Zacchaeus, Mr. John Olaleye, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, Mrs. Oladeji and Mary Akanbi of Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School, alongside several pupils.
Alhaji Aleem commended the dedication, courage and professionalism displayed by Nigerian security agencies throughout the rescue operation.
He specifically praised the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun personnel, local vigilantes, hunters, community leaders and all other individuals whose collective efforts contributed to the successful rescue of the victims.
He also sympathised with the families of the victims and the security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operation, describing their sacrifice as a testament to their commitment to protecting lives and defending the nation.
“We also commiserate with the families of the victims and the security personnel who lost their lives during the rescue operations,” Aleem said.
While celebrating the successful rescue, he stressed that governments at both the Federal and State levels must take proactive steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
He urged the authorities to strengthen security around schools, improve intelligence gathering and implement sustainable strategies capable of protecting pupils, teachers and educational institutions from attacks by criminal elements.
Alhaji Aleem also called for comprehensive support for the rescued victims, urging the government to provide adequate medical attention, trauma counselling and psychosocial care to aid their recovery and facilitate their smooth reintegration into their families, schools and communities.
He further reminded Nigerians that safeguarding lives and property should not be left entirely to government and security agencies.
According to him, security is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of every citizen through vigilance and the timely reporting of suspicious activities.
“The safety of our communities cannot rest solely on the shoulders of government and security agencies. Security is a shared civic responsibility.
Every citizen has a role to play by remaining vigilant, paying close attention to unusual movements and unfamiliar activities within their neighbourhoods and promptly reporting any suspicious persons or developments to the appropriate security agencies.
Many security breaches can be prevented when timely information is responsibly communicated,” he said.
Alhaji Aleem prayed for lasting peace and security across Oyo State and Nigeria and reaffirmed OTM’s commitment to advocating for the protection of lives, the advancement of education and the wellbeing of every child.
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