Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has commended security agencies and local security groups for the successful rescue of seven victims abducted in connection with Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, in Remo North Local Government Area of the state.
The governor specifically praised the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), alongside the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters, for their coordinated efforts in securing the victims’ freedom.
The seven rescued victims included students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic and two non-students who were also held by the suspected kidnappers.
Abiodun said the operation, which culminated in the rescue of the victims in the early hours of Friday, demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence sharing and collaboration among security agencies.
The victims were rescued around Alamala community, off Ayetoro Road Roundabout in Abeokuta, after security operatives conducted an intelligence-led operation targeting the kidnappers’ hideout.
The governor said the state government immediately activated a coordinated security response after receiving reports of the abduction, with security personnel deployed to affected areas and adjoining forests to locate the victims.
He also disclosed that additional air support was deployed during the operation following a request to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for a police helicopter.
Abiodun described the rescue as a major breakthrough in the state’s efforts to combat kidnapping and other forms of criminality.
He assured residents that security agencies would continue to pursue those responsible for the abduction, including their collaborators, informants, logistics providers and sponsors.
“One of the victims sustained a gunshot injury during the incident and was immediately evacuated for medical attention. The student has since been stabilised,” the governor said.
He noted that the security operation remained ongoing, with personnel continuing efforts to track down other members of the suspected kidnapping gang.
The governor also commended the security agencies for their contributions to recent joint security initiatives, particularly Operation Kò S’Áyé, which he said had demonstrated the value of intelligence coordination and sustained operational pressure against criminal elements.
Abiodun further praised President Bola Tinubu for strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through investments in security personnel, intelligence coordination and modern operational equipment.
He said improved welfare for security personnel, including the recent salary increase for officers and men of the Armed Forces, would further enhance their morale and effectiveness.
The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, also confirmed the rescue and said no ransom was paid.
Ojajuni said the rescued victims were reunited with their families after receiving medical attention, while two suspected kidnappers had been arrested and were in police custody.
He said other suspected members of the gang were still being pursued, adding that security operatives were continuing to comb the forest.
The Gateway ICT Polytechnic students were reportedly abducted on July 29 when suspected armed men invaded a private hostel along Paraga Road in Ipara-Remo.
Abiodun said the successful operation reaffirmed his administration’s determination to ensure that criminals have no safe haven in Ogun State.
“Our resolve is very clear. Ogun State will remain hostile to criminality and safe for every law-abiding citizen, resident and investor,” he declared.
