Chioma Vivian James
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed immense relief and joy following the successful rescue of the children and teachers abducted from Oriire Community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, bringing to a close a traumatic ordeal that gripped the nation for more than seven weeks.
The President described the operation as a major victory against criminality and terrorism, commending the coordinated efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies whose professionalism, resilience, and intelligence-led strategy ensured the safe return of the victims without loss of life or collateral damage.
The rescue operation, which lasted 56 days, involved a sustained collaboration among the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other intelligence agencies. Security operatives not only secured the release of the abducted pupils and teachers but also arrested eight members of the criminal network responsible for the abduction while neutralizing several others during the operation.
President Tinubu acknowledged the emotional pain, uncertainty, and anxiety endured by the victims, their families, and millions of Nigerians who closely followed developments throughout the period of 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 heinous act and led to the arrest of eight others.
This successful operation has ended a siege of more than 50 days and brought immense relief to the affected families and indeed the entire nation. On behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I express my deepest appreciation to the officers and men of our Armed Forces, the intelligence community, and the police for their courage, sacrifice, and dedication in ensuring the safe rescue of the victims.”
The President emphasized that the successful outcome reflects his administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of Nigerians and confronting criminal elements threatening national peace and security.
He further assured the nation that those responsible for the abduction and related crimes would face the full weight of the law.
“My government remains determined to secure justice for these children, their teachers, and the family of Mr. Oyedokun, whose life was tragically cut short by the terrorists. We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that perpetrators of such acts are identified, apprehended, and prosecuted.”
President Tinubu also lauded the Government of Oyo State for its close cooperation with federal authorities throughout the rescue mission. He noted that the successful conclusion of the operation was made possible through effective collaboration between state and federal institutions and urged continued vigilance around educational facilities across the state.
The President stressed the importance of strengthening security architecture around schools and learning centres nationwide, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating a safe environment where children can pursue education without fear.
In a further demonstration of concern for the welfare of the rescued victims, President Tinubu directed relevant emergency and humanitarian agencies to work closely with the Oyo State Government to provide comprehensive medical care, psychological support, rehabilitation services, and other relief interventions necessary for the children’s recovery and reintegration.
The rescue has been widely celebrated across the country as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the effectiveness of coordinated security operations. For many Nigerians, it marks not only the end of a painful chapter for the affected families but also a renewed confidence in the nation’s determination to confront insecurity and protect its citizens.
As the rescued pupils and teachers reunite with their loved ones, the nation joins them in gratitude, while honoring the sacrifices of security personnel whose dedication made the successful operation possible.
The Federal Government has reiterated that safeguarding schools, protecting children, and defeating criminal networks remain top priorities in its ongoing efforts to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.
