By Seyi Odewale
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has described the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State as a major boost to public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions and President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.
Oyintiloye said the operation demonstrated that Nigeria’s security agencies have the capacity to confront criminal groups and reverse the tide of insecurity through coordinated, intelligence-driven operations.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, the former lawmaker commended President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for securing the safe return of the victims.
According to him, the operation had not only saved lives but also renewed hope that the country can overcome terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes threatening national development.
“The successful rescue operation has reassured Nigerians that our security agencies can deliver results when properly supported and coordinated,” he said.
Oyintiloye added that the development had also undermined attempts by some individuals to politicise the unfortunate incident.
He praised the courage displayed by the rescued pupils and teachers throughout their ordeal and described their safe return as a victory for the country.
“I congratulate Mr President, Governor Seyi Makinde, the security agencies, the victims and the people of Oyo State on this remarkable achievement,” he said.
The APC stalwart, however, stressed that the country must build on the momentum generated by the operation by strengthening intelligence gathering, improving inter-agency collaboration and adopting more proactive responses to emerging security threats.
He argued that security remains the foundation upon which economic recovery, investment and sustainable national growth are built.
“A secure nation is a prosperous nation. Without security, economic growth and development become difficult to achieve,” he stated.
Oyintiloye also urged both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to provide counselling, rehabilitation and psychosocial support for the rescued pupils and teachers to aid their recovery and reintegration.
While celebrating the successful outcome of the operation, he extended condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones during the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of those who paid the ultimate price. May their souls rest in peace,” he said.
He further urged the military and other security agencies to intensify operations aimed at rescuing victims still being held by terrorists and kidnappers in Borno State and other parts of the country.
The APC chieftain also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in the course of the rescue mission, describing their sacrifice as a testament to their commitment to protecting Nigerians.
Oyintiloye called for stronger action against individuals and networks supplying weapons, vehicles, illicit drugs and financial support to criminal groups operating across the country.
According to him, dismantling the supply and financing chains sustaining insurgency would significantly weaken the operational capacity of terrorist and bandit groups.
“To effectively defeat insecurity, Nigeria must go after those funding, equipping and sustaining criminal organisations. Once the supply chains are disrupted, the criminals will become weaker,” he said.
He also appealed to Nigerians to support security agencies by volunteering credible information that can help prevent attacks and track criminal elements.
“Security is a collective responsibility. If you see something, say something. The fight against insecurity cannot be left to the government alone,” Oyintiloye added.
