Commends FG, Oyo government, security agencies
Calls for greater investment in intelligence gathering
By Dapo Akinrefon
The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has commended the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, security agencies and local security groups that led to the rescue of abducted teachers and pupils from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The teachers and pupils, who were abducted by armed assailants from three schools in the Ahoro-Esinle/Yawota communities, regained their freedom on Friday after spending 56 days in captivity.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Adams said the successful rescue operation demonstrated the importance of cooperation and coordination among security stakeholders in addressing the country’s security challenges.
He praised the Federal Government for its intervention, including the deployment of a high-level delegation led by the National Security Adviser to coordinate the rescue efforts.
Adams also commended the Oyo State Government for its cooperation with federal authorities and security agencies throughout the operation.
He acknowledged the commitment of the Amotekun Corps, vigilante groups and members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), noting that their familiarity with the local terrain contributed significantly to the successful rescue.
According to him, Oyo State’s Integrated Security Concept, which brings together the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, OPC, vigilante groups, Agbekoya and Soludero, has demonstrated the value of coordinated security operations.
“The success of this integrated approach in the recent rescue operation underscores the importance of synergy among various security actors,” he said.
Adams also welcomed the Federal Government’s reported plan to establish a military base in the area, describing it as a strategic step toward strengthening security infrastructure and preventing future attacks.
He, however, urged the Federal and State Governments to intensify efforts to prevent similar incidents by investing more in intelligence gathering, strengthening state and community policing initiatives, and improving infrastructure in vulnerable communities.
