IPCR applauds Tinubu, security chiefs over rescue of abducted Oyo pupils, teachers

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security leadership for the successful rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In a statement issued on Saturday by its Director-General, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the institute described the operation as a major milestone in the country’s efforts to combat kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.

IPCR specifically lauded the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Inspector-General of Police, heads of other security agencies, the Oyo State Government and all personnel involved in the rescue mission.

According to the institute, the successful operation demonstrates the gains of President Tinubu’s continued investment in the nation’s security architecture, particularly through enhanced inter-agency collaboration, intelligence-led operations and sustained support for security agencies.

The institute said the safe return of the victims after weeks in captivity had brought relief to their families, affected communities and Nigerians who had anxiously awaited their release.

It also congratulated the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, intelligence agencies and other security personnel for what it described as exceptional courage, professionalism and operational coordination that led to the victims’ rescue.

IPCR noted that the operation underscores the importance of sustained collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, intelligence institutions and local communities in tackling the country’s evolving security challenges.

While celebrating the rescue, the institute stressed that greater attention should now be paid to preventing similar attacks by strengthening security around schools and other vulnerable public institutions.

“The successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers is a welcome development that deserves national commendation. It reflects the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the nation’s security institutions in fulfilling their constitutional responsibility, as well as the commitment, professionalism and resilience of our gallant security personnel whose sacrifices continue to safeguard lives and preserve national security,” the statement said.

IPCR further praised the President for providing the leadership and support required for security agencies to carry out their constitutional responsibilities effectively.

The institute warned that attacks on educational institutions have consequences that extend beyond the immediate victims, creating fear among parents, disrupting learning and undermining national development.

It therefore called on governments at all levels to reinforce security around schools through improved surveillance, early warning systems, intelligence gathering and stronger partnerships with host communities.

The institute also advocated increased investment in intelligence-driven operations and rapid response capabilities to prevent future attacks.

Beyond security measures, IPCR emphasised the need for peacebuilding initiatives to address the underlying causes of violent crime, including poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and weak community engagement.

It urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, civil society organisations and community leaders to continue supporting security agencies through information sharing, dialogue and community-based initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and preventing criminal activities.