Tinubu Hails Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
Tinubu Hails Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force for the successful rescue of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the intelligence-led operation as a major victory against criminal elements.
In a statement issued on Friday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the coordinated efforts of the security agencies, noting that the victims were rescued safely without any collateral damage.
The President said the operation, carried out jointly by the military, police, and intelligence operatives, also led to the arrest of eight members of the kidnapping syndicate, while several other suspects were neutralised during the mission.
“I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State today after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation that neutralised some of the terrorists that perpetrated the evil act and the arrest of eight of them,” Tinubu said.
He noted that the successful operation ended more than 50 days of anxiety for the victims, their families, and the nation.
“This successful military operation has ended the siege and standoff of over 50 days and has brought relief to the entire nation and the affected families in particular,” the President added.
Tinubu applauded officers and men of the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, and the police for their dedication and professionalism, describing their efforts as heroic.
The President also pledged that his administration would ensure justice for the rescued pupils and teachers, as well as the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed by the kidnappers during the victims’ captivity.
“My government will get justice for these children and their teachers and for the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who the terrorists gruesomely murdered,” he stated.
Tinubu further commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation throughout the rescue operation and urged the state to strengthen security around schools to prevent similar incidents.
He also directed relevant emergency response agencies to collaborate with the Oyo State Government in providing immediate medical treatment, trauma counselling, and other support services to aid the recovery of the rescued pupils and teachers.
The rescue marks the end of 56 days in captivity for the victims, who were abducted by armed men in Oriire community, Ogbomoso.
During the operation, security forces arrested eight suspected kidnappers and neutralised several others, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty over the fate of the victims and recording another breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime across the country.
