By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria (NISCN) has urged President Bola Tinubu to establish military formations in Ogbomoso and vulnerable Oyo State border communities.

The council made the appeal in a statement issued by its President, John Obajinmi, on Monday in Abuja following abductions and killings in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State.

Obajinmi described the security situation as alarming, citing the abduction of about 40 teachers and students from schools in Ahoro-Esinele community.

He said some victims were reportedly killed, while others remained in captivity more than 10 days after the incident.

Obajinmi also highlighted the abduction of staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria in Ibadan.

He described the incidents as a growing threat to workers’ safety and national productivity across the region.

He called for immediate establishment of forward military bases along Oyo’s northern corridors and South-West border routes to combat banditry and kidnapping.

Obajinmi also warned against increasing arms smuggling activities within the affected communities.

“The current wave of attacks on schools and farms poses a serious risk to occupational safety and food security,” he said.

The NISCN president urged federal and Oyo State authorities to intensify efforts to rescue abducted victims through intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration.

He also advocated legal backing, training and equipment for local security outfits to strengthen grassroots security operations.

According to him, stronger community-based security structures would improve early warning systems and rapid response to attacks in rural communities.

Obajinmi further called for increased protection of farmers and traders, particularly during market days, to safeguard rural livelihoods and agricultural production.

He said decisive government action would restore public confidence and discourage further criminal activities in the region. (NAN)