The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and Nigeria’s security agencies for securing the release of the abducted Oriire schoolchildren and their teachers.
In a statement released on Saturday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the monarch described the victims’ freedom after spending about 56 days in captivity as a huge relief for their families and loved ones.
According to the Ooni, the successful rescue reflects the Federal Government’s determination to safeguard lives and property across the country.
He also commended the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their professionalism, courage and unwavering commitment throughout the operation.
The monarch further praised President Tinubu for providing the leadership and support that contributed to the successful rescue. He equally acknowledged the efforts of the Oyo State Government, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders who played key roles in the operation.
Ooni Ogunwusi also congratulated the parents, guardians and relatives of the rescued pupils and teachers, noting that their safe return had brought an end to several weeks of fear, uncertainty and fervent prayers.
“The successful rescue of the Oriire schoolchildren and teachers is a welcome development and a testament to what can be achieved when government institutions, security agencies and communities work together towards a common goal.
“I commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and our gallant security personnel for their commitment and determination in ensuring that these innocent children and their teachers return safely to their families,” the Ooni said.
The traditional ruler stated, “The courage and professionalism demonstrated by our security agencies during this operation deserve commendation. Their efforts have restored hope and reaffirmed the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the security challenges facing our nation.”
While welcoming the successful rescue, the Ooni urged security agencies and relevant authorities to sustain efforts aimed at preventing future attacks, particularly on schools and vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
Ooni of Ife stressed the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved community engagement and closer collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions, noting that traditional rulers remain strategic partners because of their close relationship with local communities.
The monarch also prayed for the speedy recovery of the rescued pupils and teachers from their ordeal, expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones during the incident, and called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to strengthen efforts against criminal activities and promote lasting peace across the country.
BACKSTORY:
The abduction of the Oriire schoolchildren and their teachers sparked widespread concern across Oyo State and beyond, adding to the growing list of school kidnappings that have plagued parts of Nigeria in recent years. The incident prompted calls from parents, community leaders and other stakeholders for swift action to secure the victims’ release, while security agencies intensified efforts to locate and rescue them.
After spending about 56 days in captivity, the pupils and teachers were eventually rescued in a coordinated operation involving multiple security agencies. Their release was widely welcomed by government officials, traditional rulers and members of the public, who described it as a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and insecurity.
