An Osun-based civil society organisation, The Osun Masterminds (TOM), has condemned the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State, calling on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward securing their immediate release, while stressing that the abducted students and teachers have already spent too long in captivity.

TOM made the call through its Executive Director, Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, while delivering its monthly State of the State Address. He also urged state governments to implement proactive security measures aimed at protecting lives and property, especially in rural communities.

Recall that on May 15, 2026, armed men abducted 39 students and seven teachers in the Ahoro-Esinele community of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, Oyedokun-Alli called on governors in the South-West region to strengthen inter-state collaboration and improve border security in order to curb the movement of criminals across state lines. He added that the South-West must not be allowed to come under the siege of banditry and insurgency.

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Speaking on the forthcoming general elections, the TOM Executive Director urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to invalidate any party primary elections conducted in violation of the Electoral Act or party constitutions.

According to him, the electoral body must remain impartial and committed to conducting credible elections, noting that good governance can only thrive under a transparent and fair electoral system.

The group also expressed concern over rising political tension in Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election, warning against increasing cases of cyberbullying, defamation, and political intimidation among supporters of different political parties.

TOM therefore urged politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns while calling on security agencies to remain neutral and proactive in preventing electoral violence and maintaining peace across the state.