The Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Ogun State chapter, has expressed serious concern over growing insecurity and alleged kidnapping threats around schools in parts of the state, particularly in Odeda and Imeko-Afon Local Government Areas.
In a statement issued by the Ogun State Chairman of ASUSS, Comrade Dr. Felix Oluwaseun Agbesanwa, the union called on the Ogun State Government and security agencies to take urgent, coordinated and sustained steps to safeguard schools, teachers and students in the affected communities.
According to the union, disturbing reports of planned kidnapping attacks and fears among residents have heightened tension within the affected areas, with some victims reportedly still in the custody of kidnappers.
ASUSS stressed that schools must never be allowed to become easy targets for criminal activities, warning that effective teaching and learning cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
“Our teachers cannot effectively discharge their duties under fear, anxiety and insecurity,” the statement noted.
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The union, however, commended the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun for ongoing efforts to protect lives and property across the state. It particularly praised the government’s swift response to the recent chemical pollution incident in Ijebu-Ode and surrounding communities, describing it as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to public welfare.
ASUSS also acknowledged the government’s investments in strengthening the state’s security architecture through logistics support and collaboration with security agencies.
Despite these efforts, the union urged the government to intensify surveillance, improve intelligence gathering, increase patrol operations and ensure visible security presence around schools and vulnerable communities in Odeda and Imeko-Afon councils.
The union further appealed to teachers, workers and residents in the affected areas to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, while expressing confidence in the ability of the government and security agencies to address the situation.
ASUSS emphasized that security remains a collective responsibility, urging traditional rulers, religious leaders, market associations, youth groups and community members to cooperate with authorities by providing useful information to combat criminal activities.
“This is not the time for fear. This is the time for unity, vigilance, cooperation and prompt action,” the statement added.
The statement reaffirmed the union’s commitment to ensuring that Ogun State remains safe for learning, teaching and community development.
