The governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State, Hon. Abimbola Adekanmbi, and the member representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, have commended Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies for the successful rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
In separate statements, the two political leaders described the operation as a significant step in efforts to tackle insecurity in Oyo State and praised the coordinated efforts of security agencies that led to the victims’ release.
Adekanmbi said the successful rescue reflected the commitment of the state government and security agencies to protecting lives and property.
“The successful rescue of the abducted victims is a welcome development and a significant victory in our collective fight against insecurity. I commend Governor Seyi Makinde for providing the necessary support and leadership that enabled our security agencies to carry out this operation successfully,” he said.
The APM governorship candidate also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, the military, and other security agencies involved in the operation.
“Our security personnel deserve commendation for their professionalism, resilience and coordinated efforts. Their commitment to protecting the lives of our people is worthy of appreciation,” he stated.
Expressing relief over the victims’ safe return, Adekanmbi sympathised with their families over the period of uncertainty they experienced during the abduction.
“My thoughts are with the families who went through this traumatic experience. I thank God that the victims have regained their freedom, and I congratulate them and their loved ones on this joyful reunion,” he said.
He urged security agencies to sustain efforts against criminal activities and ensure those responsible for the abduction were arrested and prosecuted.
“We must not relent in the fight against criminality. Those behind this reprehensible act must be identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. The safety and security of our people must remain a top priority,” he added.
Adekanmbi also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible information.
“I also appeal to residents to continue supporting our security agencies with useful and timely information. Security is a collective responsibility, and together we can build a safer Oyo State,” he said.
Similarly, Oyekunle described the rescue as evidence of the effectiveness of the collaborative security architecture established by the Makinde administration.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr. Akinwale Bodija, the lawmaker commended the governor for his continued support for security agencies.
“The successful rescue of the abducted victims is a testament to the effectiveness of the collaborative security architecture established by the Makinde administration. It also reinforces public confidence in the government’s resolve to safeguard lives and property across Oyo State,” he said.
Oyekunle also praised the Nigeria Police Force, the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies for their role in the operation.
“I commend the gallantry, professionalism and dedication of our security agencies whose coordinated efforts made the successful rescue of the victims possible. Their sacrifice and commitment to duty deserve the appreciation of all well-meaning Nigerians,” he added.
The federal lawmaker expressed gratitude that the abductees had been reunited with their families and sympathised with them over their ordeal.
“We are grateful that the victims have been reunited with their families. My thoughts remain with them as they recover from the traumatic experience they endured while in captivity,” he said.
He called on security agencies to sustain the fight against kidnapping by ensuring those responsible for the crime were brought to justice.
“We must sustain the momentum against kidnapping and other violent crimes. Those behind this unfortunate incident must be brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
Oyekunle also reaffirmed his support for legislative measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security framework and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
“Security is a collective responsibility. I urge residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing useful and timely information that will help prevent criminal activities and keep our communities safe,” he stated.
