Alausa praises Tinubu, security agencies over rescue of abducted Ogbomoso pupils, teachers
Tunji Alausa, minister of education, has commended President Bola Tinubu, the Oyo state government and security agencies for the successful rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Oriire LGA of Oyo state.
In a statement issued on Friday by Ikharo Attah, his special adviser on communications and media, Alausa described the rescue as a demonstration of the federal government’s commitment to protecting schoolchildren and ensuring the safety of Nigerians.
The minister said Tinubu showed steadfast leadership by ensuring that every effort was made to secure the release of the victims.
Alausa also praised Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo, and the state government for working closely with security agencies during the rescue operation and supporting the victims’ rehabilitation and reintegration.
He commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security and intelligence agencies involved in the operation for what he described as their professionalism, courage and coordination.
“The successful rescue of these innocent children and their teachers is a moment of great relief for the nation. It reflects the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to protect the lives of Nigerians and demonstrates the growing effectiveness of collaboration among the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and our security agencies,” the statement reads.
“On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education, I congratulate Mr President on this important achievement. I also commend the Oyo State Government for its support and commitment throughout this difficult period, and sincerely appreciate the bravery, patriotism and tireless efforts of all the security personnel whose dedication made this rescue possible.
“Their collective efforts have restored hope to the affected families and reassured Nigerians that our institutions remain resolute in confronting criminality.”
The minister expressed sympathy to the rescued pupils, teachers and their families over the trauma they experienced during their 56 days in captivity and prayed for their physical and psychological recovery.
Alausa reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen school safety across the country in line with the Tinubu administration’s renewed hope agenda.
He also urged communities, parents, school authorities and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and continue supporting government efforts by cooperating with security agencies to keep schools safe for teaching and learning.
On Friday, the abducted pupils and teachers regained their freedom after spending 56 days in captivity following a coordinated operation involving the military, the DSS and the police.
On May 15, gunmen attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and LA Primary School, all in Oriire LGA of Oyo state, abducting dozens of pupils and teachers. One of the abducted teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed in captivity.
