The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, has praised President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, security agencies, local government chairmen and traditional rulers in Ogbomoso Zone for their roles in securing the release of school pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The victims, who were kidnapped about six weeks ago from the communities of Ahoro-Esinele, Yawota and Alawusa in Oriire Local Government Area, regained their freedom on Friday following coordinated security efforts.
In a statement issued on Friday, Oba Alao described the rescue as a significant achievement that would restore public confidence in the government’s ability to protect lives and property across the country.
The monarch, who coordinated community support for the rescue efforts, said the successful operation had brought relief to the families of the victims and residents of affected communities, noting that the safe return of the children and teachers had eased widespread anxiety.
He commended President Tinubu and Governor Makinde for providing decisive political leadership and demonstrating commitment to addressing insecurity and safeguarding Nigerians.
According to him, the collaboration between the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, security agencies, local government authorities and traditional institutions demonstrated that collective action remains the most effective strategy for tackling terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
“By working together at the federal and state levels, alongside local government officials and traditional rulers, this successful security operation has shown that Nigeria is strong enough to defeat terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements,” the monarch said.
Oba Alao added that both President Tinubu and Governor Makinde chose the difficult but appropriate path in addressing the security challenge, describing their actions as an example of purposeful leadership capable of restoring hope and inspiring patriotism among citizens.
The traditional ruler also paid tribute to members of the security agencies who participated in the operation, acknowledging the sacrifices made during the mission.
“My sincere appreciation goes to all the security personnel who worked together and risked their lives to rescue the abductees. Some paid the supreme sacrifice in the course of this national assignment. May God grant them eternal rest and comfort their families,” he said.
While celebrating the successful rescue, Oba Alao urged residents of rural and border communities to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
He also called on government at all levels to strengthen community-based security measures to prevent a recurrence of the abduction in Oriire Local Government Area.
