The Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has strongly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what it described as the Federal Government’s failure to effectively tackle the worsening security situation across Nigeria, particularly the continued abduction of schoolchildren, teachers, women, and residents of rural communities by armed groups and terrorists.
The group alleged that while insecurity continues to spread across various parts of the country, the President appears more concerned about political calculations and preparations for the 2027 general elections than addressing the plight of citizens currently being held captive under harsh and dangerous conditions.
In a statement issued on Monday by the organisation’s Convener, Olusola Badero, through its Home Director, Princess Balogun, the union expressed deep concern over the growing number of Nigerians reportedly being held by terrorists, lamenting what it described as inadequate urgency from the Federal Government in responding to the crisis.
According to the statement, the organisation believes that many innocent Nigerians, including schoolchildren, teachers, women, and community leaders, remain trapped in terrorist camps and forests while political activities continue across the country.
The union criticised what it perceived as a disconnect between the realities faced by victims of insecurity and the activities of political leaders, arguing that families whose loved ones have been abducted continue to live in uncertainty and fear while political actors engage in public celebrations and consultations.
The group noted that many of the abducted victims are enduring severe hardships, including exposure to harsh weather conditions, inadequate food, and constant threats to their lives, while their families remain desperate for news about their safety and eventual release.
According to the organisation, the President enjoys extensive security protection and the comfort of being surrounded by his family, while numerous Nigerian families are unable to celebrate or enjoy peace because their loved ones remain in captivity.
The union further stated that it had repeatedly warned the Federal Government, governors in the South-West region, and authorities in Kwara State about what it described as the increasing presence and activities of armed Fulani terrorists in several communities across the South-West.
According to the statement, these warnings were allegedly ignored despite repeated concerns raised by community leaders and stakeholders.
The organisation argued that the security challenges currently facing many communities could have been mitigated if early warnings had received the necessary attention and action from relevant authorities.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of national security, the group described the government’s response as inadequate and ineffective. It argued that the scale of insecurity across the country demands stronger leadership and more decisive measures.
The union maintained that the Federal Government has failed to demonstrate the level of commitment required to address the growing security threats confronting communities nationwide.
According to the group, insecurity has reached alarming levels, with increasing reports of kidnappings, attacks on rural settlements, and the occupation of communities by armed groups.
The statement highlighted what it described as a disturbing rise in the number of women and children being held captive across different parts of the country.
The organisation claimed that more than 174 women and children from Woro in Kaiama Local Government Area were reportedly being held by kidnappers, while another 416 women and children in Borno State were allegedly under the control of Boko Haram insurgents.
The union said these figures reflect the severity of the security crisis and underscore the urgent need for stronger intervention by the Federal Government and security agencies.
Particular attention was also drawn to the abduction of schoolchildren, teachers, and a school principal from communities in Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
According to the organisation, the victims had remained in captivity for more than two weeks, creating anxiety among families, community members, and concerned Nigerians.
The group expressed concern over what it described as the prolonged captivity of the victims and called for intensified efforts to secure their immediate release.
Specifically, the union demanded the unconditional release of the 47 teachers and students abducted from Ahoro Esiele Community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The organisation stated that the continued detention of the victims represented a tragic situation for their families and communities.
It also expressed sympathy for the victims, noting that the psychological trauma, fear, and uncertainty they have endured during captivity are difficult to fully comprehend.
The statement further criticised what it described as a pattern of superficial responses to insecurity, arguing that more comprehensive and strategic actions are required to confront the challenges facing the nation.
According to the group, insecurity has continued to undermine daily life across Nigeria, making travel increasingly dangerous and exposing rural communities to frequent attacks.
The organisation observed that many highways have become unsafe, with travellers often fearful of kidnappings and other violent crimes.
It also noted that years of inadequate infrastructure development and neglect of rural communities have contributed to the vulnerability of many areas, making it easier for armed groups to operate.
The union lamented the loss of community defenders and local vigilantes who have reportedly been killed while attempting to protect their communities from attacks.
It further expressed concern over reports of women and girls becoming victims of violence and abuse due to the inability of authorities to provide adequate protection.
According to the group, the failure to effectively secure communities has left many residents exposed to criminal activities and has deepened the humanitarian challenges confronting affected regions.
Concluding its statement, the Yoruba Union urged the Federal Government to place greater priority on addressing insecurity and ensuring the safe return of all abducted Nigerians.
The organisation stressed that restoring security and protecting lives should remain the foremost responsibility of government at all levels, warning that the nation’s future depends on decisive action to confront terrorism, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime.
The group called on authorities to intensify rescue efforts, strengthen community protection mechanisms, and implement long-term solutions capable of restoring confidence, peace, and safety across the country.
