By Olayinka Ajayi
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has described the rescue of the 44 persons in the old Oyo National Park as a renewed source of hope for Nigeria in the fight against insecurity.
The Sultan, while congratulating President Bola Tinubu and the 44 pupils and teachers who regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity following their abduction in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, in a statement by its media team said, “The rescue will serve as a renewed source of hope for Nigeria in the fight against insecurity.”
The Sultan expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving the lives of the victims and commended the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and the nation’s security and intelligence agencies for their dedication and coordinated efforts.
He noted that while the successful operation deserves commendation, it also highlights the need for sustained vigilance and stronger collaboration between government, security agencies, and citizens to tackle insecurity nationwide.
He, however, appealed to the Federal Government, the Borno State Government, and all relevant security agencies to demonstrate the same level of urgency, determination, and commitment in securing the speedy rescue and safe release of schoolchildren recently abducted in Borno State.
“Every Nigerian life is equally precious and deserving of protection.”
The Sultan also called on all Nigerians to reject every form of criminality, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, ritual killings, and other violent crimes. “Since no religion teaches or encourages criminality, Nigeria will become a safer and stronger nation if members of all faiths unite to confront criminals within their communities and support efforts to rid every part of the country of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, ritualism, and every other form of violent crime,” he said.
He congratulated the rescued pupils and their teachers for surviving the traumatic ordeal and returning home safely, and prayed for their complete physical, emotional, and psychological recovery.
The Sultan further appreciated President Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, the Service Chiefs, and all security and intelligence agencies for their commitment. He urged them to sustain ongoing efforts until every abducted Nigerian, particularly the schoolchildren in Borno State, regains freedom.
