The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State within 72 hours, intensifying pressure on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to address the country’s growing security challenges.

The demand was made on Wednesday during a press briefing in Abuja by the Minority Leader of the House, Fred Agbedi. He expressed concern over the continued wave of kidnappings and attacks affecting communities across Nigeria, stressing that urgent and decisive action was needed to restore public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.

According to Agbedi, the Federal Government must immediately deploy a special military operation aimed at rescuing the abducted victims. He argued that repeated incidents of mass abductions have become a disturbing trend and warned that Nigerians are increasingly losing faith in the ability of security agencies to protect lives and property.

The lawmaker criticized what he described as a pattern of official responses that focus more on public statements than measurable outcomes. He maintained that criminal groups should not be allowed to dictate terms or operate with apparent impunity while citizens continue to live in fear.

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The Minority Caucus also called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security system. Members of the opposition bloc argued that existing strategies have not produced the desired results and that new approaches are required to confront the growing threats posed by kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements.

Agbedi emphasized that the government should prioritize intelligence gathering, strengthen operational capacity, and improve the welfare of security personnel serving on the frontlines. He noted that effective intelligence remains one of the most critical tools in preventing attacks and dismantling criminal networks.

Beyond the issue of insecurity, the caucus raised concerns about governance and political priorities. The opposition lawmakers accused the ruling administration of focusing excessively on preparations linked to the 2027 general elections while many pressing national issues remain unresolved.

According to the caucus, the country is facing a combination of security threats, economic hardship, and social instability that requires immediate attention. They argued that political calculations should take a back seat while efforts are concentrated on protecting citizens and stabilizing the economy.

The lawmakers also criticized the state of emergency declared in Rivers State in 2025, describing it as a politically motivated move targeted at opponents. They insisted that government actions should be guided by national interest and democratic principles rather than partisan considerations.

As part of their recommendations, the Minority Caucus urged the Federal Government to suspend activities associated with the 2027 election cycle and instead launch a six-month National Security and Economic Recovery Plan. They said such an initiative would allow authorities to focus resources and attention on addressing insecurity, inflation, unemployment, and other critical challenges facing Nigerians.

The call comes at a time when concerns over public safety remain high across several parts of the country. Citizens, civil society organizations, and political stakeholders have repeatedly urged authorities to adopt stronger measures against criminal activities that continue to disrupt communities and livelihoods.

With the 72-hour ultimatum now in place, attention will be focused on the Federal Government’s response and the efforts of security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers.