Abiodun hails Tinubu, security agencies over rescue of Oyo schoolchildren, teachers

By Abiodun Lawal

Ogun governor, Dapo Abiodun, has described successful rescue of schoolchildren and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as a vindication of President Bola Tinubu’s assurance that every effort would be made to secure their freedom and ensure those responsible, faced justice.

Abiodun said this while congratulating President Tinubu on the successful rescue of the abductees in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Saturday.

The Governor described the operation that led to the rescue of the abductees as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling insecurity.

According to him, the arrest of eight suspects and the neutralisation of others during the operation sent a strong message that kidnappers, bandits and other violent criminals would not find safe haven in Nigeria.

He said that the operation demonstrated the Federal Government’s determination to pursue criminal elements relentlessly and deal with them in accordance with the law.

“This operation has demonstrated that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu there will be no safe haven for criminal elements.

“It is a clear signal that those who choose the path of kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes will be relentlessly pursued, apprehended or neutralised in accordance with the law,” the governor said.

Abiodun commended the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), local intelligence operatives and other security agencies for their professionalism, courage and coordinated efforts.

He also praised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for collaborating with the Federal Government and security agencies throughout the victims’ captivity, saying the partnership contributed to the successful rescue.

The governor said that the operation reinforced the effectiveness of the Federal Government’s renewed security strategy implemented in collaboration with state governments and security agencies.

Abiodun urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information to prevent criminal activities and enhance public safety.

He reaffirmed Ogun State’s commitment to working with the Federal Government, neighbouring states and security agencies to ensure criminals have no refuge in the South-West.

The 46 abducted teachers and pupils, taken captive on May 15 from Ahoro Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire LGA, regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity.

Reports have it that eight of the suspected kidnappers were arrested by security operative while some others were neutralised.
(NAN)