The Oyo State House of Assembly yesterday rejected calls for negotiations with the kidnappers and urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts.

The Assembly’s resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Oriire State Constituency, Johnson Ogundele, who drew attention to the recurring attacks on communities within the local government area.

The lawmaker recalled that armed bandits invaded schools in Esinele, Oyo and Yawota communities on May 15, killing a teacher, a student and a commercial motorcyclist before abducting dozens of pupils and teachers.

He also highlighted previous attacks in the area, including an assault on the National Park Service office at Oloka village, where five forest guards were killed.

Lawmakers urged the government to strengthen support for security agencies and establish a permanent military base in vulnerable communities and forest corridors.

The Assembly called on the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to conduct security audits of schools located near forests and border communities