On May 24, a viral video captured a secondary school student who reportedly went to school with a cutlass for self-protection in Oyo State. The incident sparked concerns about the level of fear and uncertainty many people now live with.
Tensions further escalated in Ogbomoso with reported attacks on security formations, including an incident in which gunmen attacked an immigration office in the area.
Another tragic incident involved Michael Oyedokun, a mathematics teacher in Ogbomoso, who was killed after being abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Days later, a video circulated online allegedly showing Oyedokun being beheaded. The footage triggered protests across Ogbomoso, as teachers, youths, and community members blocked major roads and demanded stronger protection for schools and rural communities.
At times like these, misinformation often spreads like wildfire. Security agencies must be proactive in debunking false reports when necessary while also ensuring that citizens are adequately protected. Insecurity is already traumatic enough; misinformation only worsens fear and tension within communities.
On June 3, 2026, another disturbing report emerged that left many Nigerians wondering: if such incidents can happen to prominent families, what hope is there for ordinary citizens who have no form of protection beyond God? Reports indicated that gunmen abducted the wife and twin children of the brother of a former Minister of Power in Ibadan.
The big question remains: when will this truly end? When will Nigerians be able to travel freely without fear?
Insecurity has left countless families devastated. Some children have become orphans, while some parents have lost their children. There was a heartbreaking account of a woman who claimed that bandits killed her two-year-old child before her eyes. Experiences like these leave deep emotional and psychological scars on victims and survivors alike.
Beyond the physical damage, insecurity has created serious mental health challenges for many people. The constant fear of attacks, kidnappings, and violence has left many Nigerians living in anxiety.
The negative impact of social media has also contributed to the spread of rumours, panic, and misinformation, which often heighten tensions in affected communities. It is essential for governments at all levels to communicate promptly and clearly whenever false information emerges. Citizens need reassurance, transparency, and action.
More importantly, leaders must focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity rather than merely offering temporary relief in the form of food items and financial assistance after attacks have occurred. While support for victims is important, preventing future tragedies should be the greater priority.
The same energy devoted to political calculations and party expansion should be directed towards tackling insecurity. Recently, old social media posts by President Bola Tinubu resurfaced, showing his criticisms of former President Goodluck Jonathan over insecurity challenges. Today, many Nigerians are asking the current administration to demonstrate the same urgency in addressing the security concerns affecting millions across the country.
Safeguarding Schools and Communities
If we truly believe that children are the leaders of tomorrow, then protecting them must be a national priority.
There is a need for stronger security measures around schools, markets, and other public spaces. Whether through specialised security units or enhanced community policing initiatives, the safety of citizens must remain at the centre of government policies.
With the recent abduction of the wife and twin children of the brother of a former Minister of Power in Ibadan, many Nigerians are closely watching how swiftly security agencies respond.
Those in positions of influence may have the resources to pay ransoms or attract attention to their cases. But what happens to the ordinary citizen who struggles daily just to survive? How does such a person raise money to secure the release of a loved one?
As a nation, we must ask ourselves difficult questions.
Is this the Nigeria we will tell our children was once peaceful?
Is this the Nigeria where banditry and kidnapping have become normalised in many communities?
Is this the Nigeria where billions of naira are allegedly lost through corruption, yet some public officials continue to be celebrated rather than held accountable?
These are questions that demand answers, not only from government officials but from all stakeholders committed to building a safer and more secure Nigeria.
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