The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has praised President Bola Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted Oriire schoolchildren and their teachers, describing the operation as a major victory for national security and a source of relief for affected families.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, the revered monarch said the safe return of the victims after about 56 days in captivity demonstrated what could be achieved through effective collaboration among government institutions, security agencies and local communities.
The Ooni said the rescue brought an end to weeks of anxiety, uncertainty and prayers for the families of the pupils and teachers, expressing gratitude that the victims were reunited safely with their loved ones.
He commended President Tinubu for providing leadership and support that contributed to the success of the operation, saying the Federal Government had once again demonstrated its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.
The monarch also lauded the Oyo State Government for its cooperation throughout the rescue mission, while acknowledging the contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders who worked behind the scenes to facilitate the operation.
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Oba Ogunwusi reserved special commendation for the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies involved in the operation, describing their professionalism, courage and dedication as exemplary.
“The successful rescue of the Oriire schoolchildren and teachers is a welcome development and a testament to what can be achieved when government institutions, security agencies and communities work together towards a common goal,” the monarch said.
“I commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and our gallant security personnel for their commitment and determination in ensuring that these innocent children and their teachers return safely to their families.”
According to the Ooni, the operation should serve as encouragement for sustained cooperation among security agencies and communities in tackling insecurity across the country.
He said the courage displayed by security operatives had restored hope among Nigerians and reinforced public confidence in the country’s security architecture.
“The courage and professionalism demonstrated by our security agencies during this operation deserve commendation. Their efforts have restored hope and reaffirmed the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the security challenges facing our nation,” he added.
The Ooni urged security agencies to sustain the momentum in the fight against kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes, expressing optimism that continued synergy between governments, traditional institutions and citizens would strengthen national security and guarantee the safety of lives and property across Nigeria.
