…calls for sweeping security reforms

By Adeola Badru

The Muslim Congress (TMC), has called for the immediate rescue of students and teachers abducted in Oyo State, urging the Federal Government and security agencies to take decisive action to stem Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.

The organisation warned that the country’s escalating wave of kidnappings and violent attacks has reached a dangerous tipping point and can no longer be regarded as isolated incidents.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its Amir (President), Alhaji AbdulWasi’i Bangbala, TMC described the recent attack in Oyo State, which reportedly claimed one life while several victims remain in captivity, as a stark reminder of the deepening security crisis confronting schools and communities across the country.

The group lamented that insecurity has become an entrenched national challenge, with millions of Nigerians increasingly living under the shadow of fear, uncertainty and recurring violence.

According to TMC, the persistent cycle of abductions, killings and attacks demands a comprehensive and strategic response from government at all levels, rather than temporary measures that fail to address the root causes of the crisis.

“What was once considered an extraordinary occurrence has now become a disturbing routine. For many Nigerians, the news of another abduction, another killing, or another community plunged into mourning no longer arrives as a shocking headline but as a grim and expected reality,“ the statement said.

TMC noted that the Oyo incident once again exposed the vulnerability of educational institutions and highlighted the growing reach of criminal networks, warning that no part of the country can confidently be described as immune from security threats.

The organisation also expressed concern over reports indicating that the number of abducted persons may be higher than officially announced, including the reported abduction of a two-year-old child whose whereabouts remain unknown.

While acknowledging assurances by government authorities that rescue efforts are ongoing and security operatives have been deployed, TMC stressed that such assurances must be matched by tangible outcomes and the safe return of all victims.

The group called for greater transparency in security operations and urged authorities to ensure that all arrested suspects are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

It maintained that public confidence in the nation’s security architecture can only be restored through visible results and accountability.

Reiterating its long-standing position on security reform, TMC renewed its call for the establishment of state police, arguing that Nigeria’s highly centralised policing structure has become overstretched and increasingly incapable of responding effectively to widespread and cross-border criminal activities.

The organisation further advocated the full activation, proper funding and equipping of local security initiatives, including Forest Guards, particularly in forest corridors and remote areas often exploited by kidnappers and armed criminal groups.

TMC also urged state governments to move beyond rhetoric by implementing robust security measures in schools, including digital surveillance systems, early-warning mechanisms and comprehensive security audits of educational institutions located in vulnerable areas.

In addition, it called for the revitalisation and adequate funding of the Safe Schools Initiative to strengthen protection for students, teachers and educational facilities nationwide.

The Muslim body emphasised the need for continuous communication between government and citizens on rescue efforts and broader security strategies, describing transparency as essential to rebuilding public trust.

According to TMC, its intervention reflects the deep anguish of a nation increasingly burdened by insecurity and the growing sense of helplessness among ordinary citizens.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the safe release of all abducted persons and stronger protection for schools and communities across the country.

“The government must respond with decisive and sustained action, not words alone, if this painful chapter is to end and lasting peace, safety and public confidence are to be restored,” the statement added.