Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commended the successful rescue of the pupils and staff abducted from a school in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening security and protecting the lives of Nigerians.
In a statement following the release of the victims after 56 days in captivity, Sanwo-Olu praised the coordinated efforts of the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and security agencies, saying the operation demonstrated what could be achieved through effective collaboration and intelligence-driven security operations.
The governor said the safe return of the abductees had brought relief to their families and communities, while also renewing hope that sustained efforts by security agencies would continue to yield positive results in the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the rescue underscores the Tinubu administration’s resolve to confront insecurity through improved coordination among security agencies, enhanced intelligence gathering, and strategic investments in national security.
“The successful rescue of the Orire pupils reflects President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians,” the governor said.
He commended members of the armed forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security personnel involved in the operation for their professionalism, courage, and resilience throughout the rescue mission.
Sanwo-Olu also acknowledged the role played by the Oyo State Government and local stakeholders, noting that collaboration between federal and state authorities remains critical to addressing the country’s security challenges.
The governor extended his sympathies to the family of the teacher who lost his life during the abduction, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by educators and security personnel in the face of rising insecurity.
While celebrating the rescue of the surviving victims, he stressed that the loss of any life remains deeply regrettable and called for continued efforts to prevent similar incidents.
Sanwo-Olu urged security agencies to sustain the momentum in ongoing operations against kidnappers and other criminal groups, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to secure schools and vulnerable communities across the country.
He further called on Nigerians to support security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence, noting that community participation remains essential in combating crime.
The Orire school abduction attracted national attention after armed men kidnapped pupils and school staff, triggering weeks of intensive search and rescue operations. The victims were eventually reunited with their families after spending nearly two months in captivity.
The incident reignited concerns over the safety of educational institutions and renewed calls for the effective implementation of school protection initiatives aimed at safeguarding students and teachers from criminal attacks.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his confidence in the Federal Government’s security strategy, expressing optimism that continued collaboration among all levels of government and security agencies would strengthen efforts to restore peace and improve public safety across the country.
