Oyo pupils rescued: Reps deputy spokesman praises Tinubu and security leaders

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, praised President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria's security leaders on Sunday for rescuing teachers and pupils who were kidnapped from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. He called the operation a big win in the fight against insecurity.

Agbese, a member of the Labour Party, shared this in a statement from Abuja. He said the successful rescue has brought back public trust in Nigeria's security system. It also showed that security agencies are determined to fight terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal groups.

He congratulated Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, service chiefs, police, Department of State Services, and other security agencies for what he called a great display of professionalism and teamwork.

Agbese said the operation shows that the Federal Government's security strategy is getting better. It also shows that the armed forces are committed to chasing down criminals all over the country.

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."

Agbese added, "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."

He noted that the rescue happened after a series of successful military actions across the country. These actions, he said, showed that Nigeria's security forces are gaining the upper hand against terrorists and bandits.

"Only recently, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA foiled coordinated terrorist attacks in Zamfara and Katsina States, neutralised the notorious terrorist commander, recovered assault rifles, ammunition and operational equipment, and, through coordinated air operations, intercepted and successfully engaged about 300 terrorists advancing on motorcycles before they could unleash mayhem on innocent communities."

Agbese said, "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 mentioned that recent military actions have also led to rescuing kidnapped victims, destroying terrorist camps, and eliminating top commanders. He believes that consistent military operations should give Nigerians confidence in the security agencies' ability to protect lives and restore peace.

Agbese urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military and security agencies by sharing credible information that can help prevent attacks and aid ongoing operations. He also asked communities to stay alert and work closely with security agencies to maintain the recent successes.

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

Agbese added, "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 believes that continued political support for the armed forces and cooperation among security agencies will strengthen the fight against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping while bringing lasting peace to the nation.

His praise of the security forces came just a day after Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers, who 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 expressed condolences to 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 said arrangements have been made for family members to reunite with the rescued victims. One of the children had been asking to see her mother since being freed.

The governor promised to update the people of Oyo State and Nigerians this week about what happened during the abduction and the efforts that led to the successful rescue.