Oyo pupils, teachers’ rescue proves Nigeria can defeat terrorism – Ex-lawmaker
A former member of the Osun State House of Assembly, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has said the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State proved that Nigeria has the capacity to overcome terrorism and other violent crimes.
Oyintiloye, who made this known in a statement obtained in Osogbo, Osun State, on Sunday, said the safe return of the abductees had boosted public confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s administration and strengthened prospects for economic growth and national stability.
The All Progressives Congress chieftain also commended Tinubu, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for what he described as their gallantry during the rescue operation.
He said, “The operation is proof of Nigeria’s capacity to defeat terrorism and other violent crimes.
“While praising the courage and resilience of the pupils and their teachers during the ordeal, I urge governments at all levels to strengthen the nation’s security architecture through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and proactive responses to emerging threats.”
Oyintiloye also appealed to the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to provide psychological support, rehabilitation and other relief for the rescued victims.
“I congratulate the President, the Oyo State governor, the victims and the people of the state on this development. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of those who lost their loved ones. May their souls rest in peace,” he said.
He further urged the military and other security agencies to build on the success of the operation by intensifying efforts to secure the release of victims still in captivity in Borno and other parts of the country.
Oyintiloye also commiserated with the military over the casualties recorded during the rescue operation, noting that the sacrifices of the fallen personnel in the service of a safer Nigeria would never be forgotten.
He called for intensified action against those supplying weapons, vehicles and illicit drugs to criminal groups, stressing the need for greater international cooperation to disrupt the financial networks sustaining insurgency.
He also urged Nigerians to support security agencies by volunteering useful information.
“Security is a collective responsibility. If you see something, say something. With this successful rescue, there is renewed hope for Nigeria in the fight against insecurity,” he said.
PUNCH Online reports that the victims were abducted on May 15 when gunmen attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in the Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to official accounts, 39 pupils and seven teachers were abducted during the attack, while the Assistant Headmaster of L.A. Primary School, Joel Adesiyan, was killed while attempting to escape.
Another teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was beheaded by the terrorists while in captivity.