The Allied People’s Movement (APM) has commended security agencies and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for their roles in the rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the opposition party described the successful rescue operation as a welcome development that brought an end to weeks of anxiety for the victims’ families, the academic community, the Oyo State Government and Nigerians who had followed the incident with concern.
The party praised the military, police and local intelligence units for what it described as their tactical precision, resilience and coordinated efforts in securing the release of the victims.
According to the APM, the professionalism and synergy displayed by the security agencies played a critical role in ensuring that the abducted pupils and teachers were rescued safely.
The party also lauded Governor Makinde for his leadership, responsiveness and commitment to the security of lives and property in the state, noting that his administration’s collaboration with security agencies contributed significantly to the success of the operation.
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It added that the governor’s support for ongoing security efforts and his proactive approach to addressing security challenges were instrumental in achieving the positive outcome.
“While we celebrate this safe return, the APM reminds all stakeholders that the safety of our educational institutions and, of course, all our communities and cities must remain a top priority.
“No Nigerian child or educator should have to pursue knowledge under the shadow of fear. We urge governments at all levels to build on this success by deploying more robust and proactive security measures around schools, particularly in vulnerable communities.
“The APM stands in solidarity with the rescued victims and their families as they begin the vital process of healing and rehabilitation,” the statement added.
The party expressed hope that the successful rescue would strengthen public confidence in the country’s security architecture and reinforce efforts to protect schools and other vulnerable institutions from criminal attacks.
The Presidency announced the rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers on Friday after about 56 days in captivity.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the victims were freed through the efforts of security agencies.
“Finally, all the kidnapped pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, have been rescued by our security agencies,” Onanuga said.
He disclosed that eight members of the kidnapping gang were arrested during the rescue operation and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Onanuga said the rescue operation did not involve any exchange or concession to the kidnappers, noting that a notorious gang leader whose release had been demanded by the abductors remains in custody and is being prosecuted for his alleged crimes.
