Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has called on the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to sustain the momentum against criminal elements, saying the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in neighbouring Oyo State should inspire greater vigilance and intensified security operations across the country.
The Governor made the call while congratulating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on the successful rescue of the victims, describing their unconditional release as heartwarming news for their families and Nigerians at large.
Governor Adeleke also applauded the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for the professionalism, resilience and coordination that culminated in the safe release of the victims after weeks of painstaking operations.
In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor said the successful operation demonstrates the value of sustained collaboration among Nigeria's security institutions in tackling terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
"I congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, on the successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State. Their safe return is a great relief to their families and indeed to all Nigerians," Governor Adeleke said.
The Governor also commended the Nigerian Army, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the Defence Headquarters, the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, the National Intelligence Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other security agencies whose coordinated efforts made the rescue possible.
Governor Adeleke particularly praised the security personnel for conducting the operation with professionalism and restraint, ensuring the victims were safely released while dismantling the criminal network responsible for the abduction.
He paid tribute to officers who made sacrifices during the operation, praying for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the line of duty and wishing those who sustained injuries a speedy recovery.
The Osun Governor, however, stressed that the fight against insecurity must not slow down, urging security agencies, particularly the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, to sustain the current momentum against criminal elements and ensure that Osun remains one of the safest states in Nigeria.
He noted that sustained intelligence gathering, proactive policing and effective inter-agency collaboration remain essential to defeating criminal networks and protecting lives and property.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his administration's continued support for security agencies in their constitutional responsibility to safeguard citizens and maintain peace across Osun State.
