Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has commended President Bola Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and Nigerian security agencies for the successful rescue of the abducted Oriire schoolchildren and teachers.
Ooni Ogunwusi, in a statement on Saturday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, described the release of the victims after about 56 days in captivity as a major relief to their families and loved ones.
The foremost Yoruba monarch said the successful operation demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.
He praised the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their professionalism, bravery and dedication throughout the rescue operation.
Ooni also commended President Tinubu for providing leadership and support that contributed to the success of the operation, acknowledging the roles played by the Oyo State Government, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders.
He congratulated the parents, guardians and relatives of the rescued pupils and teachers, saying their reunion marked the end of weeks of anxiety, uncertainty and prayers.
The statement partly read, “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.
“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.”
The monarch stated, “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.”
While welcoming the successful rescue, the Ooni urged security agencies and relevant authorities to sustain efforts aimed at preventing future attacks, particularly on schools and vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
He stressed the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved community engagement and closer collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions, noting that traditional rulers remain strategic partners because of their close relationship with local communities.
The monarch also prayed for the speedy recovery of the rescued pupils and teachers from their ordeal, expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones during the incident, and called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to strengthen efforts against criminal activities and promote lasting peace across the country.
