President Tinubu Hails Rescue of Oriire Abducted Schoolchildren, Commends Security Forces
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed satisfaction over the successful rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted from Oriire community in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, commending the security agencies for concluding the operation without civilian casualties.
In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the military, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force for their coordinated efforts, which led to the safe rescue of the victims after 56 days in captivity.
According to the Presidency, the operation also resulted in the arrest of eight suspected abductors, while other members of the criminal group were neutralised during the intelligence led mission.
President Tinubu acknowledged the emotional trauma experienced by the abducted children, their teachers, their families, and the nation throughout the period of their captivity, describing the rescue as a major relief.
He also commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation and urged the state to strengthen security around schools to reduce future vulnerabilities.
The President stated that the successful operation ended more than 50 days of uncertainty and demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated military, police, and intelligence operations against violent criminal groups.
He further assured that justice would be pursued for the rescued victims and for the family of Mr. Oyedokun, who was reportedly killed by the abductors during the incident.
President Tinubu also directed relevant emergency response agencies to work with the Oyo State Government to provide medical care, psychosocial support, and other relief assistance to the rescued children and their teachers.
The rescue represents another example of multiagency security operations aimed at addressing kidnapping for ransom, a crime that has continued to challenge security agencies in several parts of the country. Security analysts maintain that sustaining intelligence driven operations, strengthening school security, and improving rapid response capabilities remain essential to preventing similar attacks on educational institutions.
