The successful rescue of the 44 pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area has continued to attract commendation, with the Comity of Oyo Professionals praising Governor Seyi Makinde for what it described as courageous leadership and effective coordination of local security efforts throughout the 57-day ordeal.
The group said the governor’s steadfast commitment, strategic coordination and consistent reassurance to residents contributed significantly to the successful rescue of the victims, who were recently freed by security operatives.
In a statement issued on Saturday, July 11, and signed by its Coordinator, Mr. Ben Atanda, the association commended Governor Makinde for mobilising all available local security structures, including the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and other stakeholders, while maintaining close collaboration with federal security agencies.
According to the group, the governor demonstrated uncommon resolve despite the unprecedented nature of the incident and sustained public pressure while the victims remained in captivity.
It noted that the governor’s response to the crisis reflected purposeful leadership and a firm commitment to safeguarding the lives of residents of the state.
The association also commended the Federal Government for supporting the rescue operation and ensuring that the abducted schoolchildren and their teachers regained their freedom safely.
It equally praised the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps and local vigilantes for their coordinated efforts, which culminated in the successful rescue.
The group recalled that both the Presidency and the military had acknowledged the cooperation between the Oyo State Government and federal security agencies during the operation.
While celebrating the successful outcome, the association urged the Federal Government to expedite action on the establishment of state police across the country.
It argued that the creation of state police would strengthen grassroots security architecture and enhance intelligence gathering, thereby helping to prevent similar attacks.
The group observed that Governor Makinde had consistently advocated state policing, especially following the abduction, stressing that local security institutions possess a better understanding of their environments.
According to the association, decentralising policing would improve response time to security threats and complement the efforts of existing federal security agencies.
It described the Oriire incident as another reminder of the need to review Nigeria’s security framework in order to address emerging security challenges more effectively.
The statement partly read: “We rejoice with the families, friends and residents of Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government on the safe release of the 44 teachers and schoolchildren abducted by bandits about 57 days ago.
“We commend Governor Oluseyi Makinde for demonstrating uncommon leadership and courage throughout this impasse despite criticisms and insults from some members of the public.
“His coordination of the local components of the security setup and cooperation with the Federal Government throughout the rescue operation cannot be overlooked, as pointed out by the Presidency and the Army.
“We equally commend the Army, Air Force, Police, Amotekun and local vigilantes, who all played key roles in the operation.
“We, however, call on the Federal Government to step up action on the creation of state police, which is one of the reforms Governor Makinde advocated in the aftermath of the abductions because local policing will help curb attacks like this.
“In all, we thank God for the safe release of the abductees.”
