A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, says the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State demonstrates Nigeria’s capacity to defeat terrorism and other violent crimes.
Oyintiloye said this while speaking with newsmen on Sunday in Osogbo, noting that the operation had boosted public confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s administration and strengthened prospects for economic growth and national stability.
He said the rescue had also neutralised attempts to politicise the incident, while praising the courage and resilience of the pupils and their teachers during the ordeal.
The former lawmaker commended President Tinubu, Oyo State Governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for securing the safe release of the victims.
Oyintiloye, however, urged governments at all levels to strengthen the nation’s security architecture through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and proactive responses to emerging threats.
According to him, a robust security system is critical to economic recovery and sustainable national development.
He also appealed to the Oyo State and Federal Governments to provide psychological support, rehabilitation and other relief for the rescued victims.
“I congratulate the President, the Oyo State governor, the victims and the people of the state on this development.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with families of those who lost their loved ones. May their souls rest in peace,” he said.
Oyintiloye further urged the military and other security agencies to build on the success of the operation by intensifying efforts to secure the release of victims still in captivity in Borno and other parts of the country.
The APC chieftain, however, commiserated with the military over casualties recorded during the rescue operation, noting that their sacrifices for a safer Nigeria would be forever remembered.
He called for intensified action against those supplying weapons, vehicles and illicit drugs to criminal elements, stressing the need for international cooperation to disrupt financial networks sustaining insurgency.
“To effectively combat insecurity, it is important to target individuals and entities financing criminal activities. Disrupting these supply chains will weaken insurgent operations,” he said.
Oyintiloye also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible intelligence.
“Security is a collective responsibility. If you see something, say something. With this successful rescue, there is renewed hope for Nigeria in the fight against insecurity,” he added.
