Deputy Spokesman Applauds Tinubu and Security Forces for Oyo Rescue

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, praised President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s security chiefs on Sunday for rescuing teachers and pupils taken from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He called the operation a breakthrough in the fight against insecurity.

In a statement from Abuja, the Labour Party lawmaker said the successful rescue restored public trust in Nigeria’s security system. He also highlighted the determination of security agencies to tackle terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminals.

Agbese congratulated Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other police and security agencies. He described their efforts as an excellent display of professionalism, intelligence, and teamwork.

He noted that the operation showed the growing effectiveness of the Federal Government’s security plans. It also proved the armed forces' commitment to pursuing criminals throughout the nation.

He said, “The rescue of every pupil and teacher abducted in Oriire is far more than the successful conclusion of a security operation. It is a powerful statement that Nigeria is rising above those who seek to define us by violence and fear.

“President Bola Tinubu, our security chiefs and the gallant men and women of our armed forces have restored our glory before the world by proving that no Nigerian life is expendable and that our nation has both the capacity and the resolve to confront criminality head-on.”

Agbese pointed out that the rescue followed a series of successful military operations. He claimed these operations showed that Nigeria's security forces were gaining the upper hand against terrorists and bandits.

“Only recently, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA foiled coordinated terrorist attacks in Zamfara and Katsina States. They neutralised a notorious terrorist commander, recovered assault rifles, ammunition, and operational equipment. They also intercepted and engaged around 300 terrorists on motorcycles before they could attack innocent communities.

“These are not isolated victories; they are clear evidence of a military that has seized the initiative and is relentlessly taking the battle to the enemies of our country,” he said.

Agbese mentioned that recent military efforts led to the rescue of kidnapped victims, destruction of terrorist camps, elimination of high-profile commanders, and recovery of weapons used by criminals.

He believes the consistency of these operations should reassure Nigerians about the security institutions' ability and commitment to protecting lives and restoring peace in the country.

He urged Nigerians to support the military and security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could prevent attacks and aid ongoing operations.

He also called on communities to stay alert and work closely with security agencies to maintain recent successes.

“To every insurgent, bandit and terrorist still hiding in forests and remote areas across our country, my message is simple: surrender now before it is too late. The operational momentum is no longer in your favour.

“Every successful rescue, every terrorist commander neutralised, and every criminal network dismantled brings Nigeria closer to lasting peace. Those who refuse to surrender should be prepared to face the overwhelming might of our gallant troops,” he stated.

Agbese is confident that ongoing political support for the armed forces and continued collaboration among security agencies will strengthen the fight against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping while restoring lasting peace across the nation.

His praise came just a day after Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, announced the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers, who had spent 56 days in captivity.

The governor visited the victims at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army Medical Services, Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan. He said they would be under medical observation for 48 hours.

Makinde also sympathised with families of those who lost their lives during the abduction, including Michael Oyedokun. He assured them that their sacrifices would not be in vain.

He added that arrangements were made for family members to reunite with the rescued victims, noting that one child had repeatedly asked to see her mother since her freedom.

The governor promised to inform the people of Oyo State and Nigerians this week about the circumstances of the abduction and the efforts that led to the successful rescue.