President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the nation’s security agencies for the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, following a 56-day operation that also led to the arrest of eight suspected abductors.
The President praised the military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force for conducting an intelligence-driven operation that secured the victims’ release without collateral damage.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the operation resulted in the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers, while others were neutralised.
President Tinubu expressed relief over the safe return of the pupils and teachers but acknowledged the trauma endured by the victims, their families and the nation during the period of their captivity.
“I am profoundly happy that our security forces successfully rescued the abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire, Ogbomoso in Oyo State after a military, police and intelligence-driven operation that neutralised some of the terrorists responsible for the attack and led to the arrest of eight others,” the President said.
He described the operation as bringing an end to more than 50 days of anxiety and uncertainty, while expressing appreciation to the armed forces, intelligence agencies and the police for their professionalism and dedication.
President Tinubu also vowed that justice would be served for the victims and for the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed by the abductors.
The President commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation and directed the state to strengthen security around schools to prevent similar incidents.
He further instructed relevant health and emergency management agencies to collaborate with the Oyo State Government in providing medical care, psychosocial support and other relief services to the rescued pupils and teachers.
