Former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Owoseni, has called for sustained security reforms, stronger intelligence gathering and improved governance to prevent the recurrence of school kidnappings in Nigeria.
Owoseni, who spoke on Trade FM’s Breakfast Business Briefing following the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State, said criminals often target vulnerable communities where security presence is weak and government structures are limited.
He explained that the Oyo attack was an opportunistic crime carried out in an area with security challenges, poor communication networks and difficult terrain, urging authorities to extend governance and security coverage to remote locations across the country.
The former police commissioner said tackling insecurity requires coordinated and continuous operations, rather than isolated responses, noting that criminal groups often relocate to other areas when pressure is applied in one location.
He also stressed the importance of prosecuting kidnappers, saying swift justice and successful convictions can serve as a deterrent, while acknowledging that some offenders may still return to crime.
Owoseni called for long-term psychological and educational support for victims of kidnapping, noting that prolonged captivity can leave survivors with deep emotional and mental trauma.
He further urged government to address the root causes of insecurity through better policing, job creation, improved living conditions and stronger public trust.
According to him, security is a collective responsibility, and citizens must support security agencies by providing useful information, while leaders must be accountable to the people.
Owoseni described the rescue of the Oyo pupils and teachers as a positive development but maintained that the priority should be preventing future attacks and ensuring schools remain safe environments for learning.
