● Paul Ibe: “Security agencies need to invite him to release those names to them”
Paul Ibe, media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has urged the Department of State Services and other security agencies to invite Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Igboho to provide information on individuals allegedly sponsoring the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State.
Ibe made the call Thursday following Igboho’s claim that he knew politicians backing kidnappers responsible for the recent school abduction in Oriire Local Government Area.
“Since Sunday Igboho claims to know those behind the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, I think that the State Security Service and other security agencies need to invite him to release those names to them,” Ibe wrote on X.
He added that all available options should be explored to accelerate rescue efforts and bring those responsible to justice.
The call comes amid heightened concern after dozens of schoolchildren and teachers were kidnapped in Oyo, triggering outrage and renewed calls for stronger action against criminal groups operating across forests and rural communities.
Igboho had earlier told National Association of Nigerian Students officials in Ibadan that he knew politicians allegedly sponsoring kidnappers in the South-West, warning he would reveal their identities if attacks continued.
The activist also alleged that although he secured federal approval for his proposed security outfit, “Iru Ekun,” the Oyo State Government prevented the group from operating, citing concerns that independent rescue efforts could jeopardise victims’ safety.
Beyond Oyo, Ibe questioned what he described as the Federal Government’s limited response to another reported abduction involving schoolchildren in Borno State. He argued victims of insecurity across the country deserved equal attention regardless of location.
The Atiku aide also called for stronger preventive measures, including improved security coverage in vulnerable communities and forests, to curb kidnappers and insurgents before attacks occur.
