‘A Victory for Oyo’ — Kuso Salutes Makinde, Security Agencies Over Rescue of Oriire Abducted Pupils, Teachers
The Chairmanship Aspirant for Ibarapa East Local Government under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Hon. Abdul Akeem Akintola Kuso, has praised Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies for securing the freedom of the pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area, describing the development as a major victory for Oyo State and a testament to what determined leadership and coordinated security efforts can achieve.
In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, Kuso said the safe release of the victims after 56 days in captivity has brought immense relief to grieving families and renewed hope among residents of the state.
He recalled that the abduction of the schoolchildren and their teachers sent shockwaves across Oyo State, triggering widespread condemnation and fervent prayers from Nigerians who demanded their safe return.
According to Kuso, Governor Makinde demonstrated courage and compassion by ensuring that the rescue mission remained a top priority until the victims regained their freedom.
“The successful rescue of these innocent children and their teachers is a moment every well-meaning citizen has longed for. It reflects the value this administration places on human life and the determination of our security agencies to protect the people despite enormous challenges.”
The APM chairmanship hopeful commended the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, and all other security personnel involved in the painstaking operation that led to the victims’ release.
He also paid tribute to officers and individuals who lost their lives in the course of the rescue efforts, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices would never be forgotten.
Kuso urged the Oyo State Government to prioritise medical treatment, psychological counselling, and rehabilitation for the rescued pupils and teachers, noting that recovery from such a traumatic experience extends beyond physical freedom.
He further called for sustained collaboration between government, traditional institutions, community leaders, and security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve the safety of schools and rural communities.
“The joy of seeing these children reunited with their families is priceless. We must now focus on helping them heal while taking stronger steps to ensure that no child in Oyo State is ever subjected to such a painful ordeal again.”
Kuso congratulated the parents, guardians, teachers, and the people of Oriire Local Government on the successful outcome of the rescue operation, expressing confidence that Oyo State would continue to overcome security challenges through unity, vigilance, and responsible leadership.
He prayed that Almighty God would continue to protect the state, strengthen security personnel in the discharge of their duties, and grant eternal rest to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the nation.