Uzodimma Hails Tinubu, Security Forces Over Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren

Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Senator Hope Uzodimma, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State.

In a statement issued on Friday, Uzodimma described the safe release of the victims after 56 days in captivity as a major victory against terrorism and proof of the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the lives of Nigerians.

The governor said the rescue operation, which secured the freedom of all the captives without the payment of ransom or concessions to the kidnappers, demonstrated President Tinubu’s resolve to confront insecurity across the country.

“I commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the safe release of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State,” he said.

Uzodimma congratulated the families of the victims, as well as the government and people of Oyo State, describing the rescue as a moment of relief for the entire nation.

According to him, the operation was the result of a direct presidential directive carried out by a joint task force comprising the Armed Forces, intelligence services and other security agencies.

He said the operation led to the dismantling of the kidnappers’ network, the arrest of eight suspects and the unconditional release of all those held captive.

The PGF chairman said the development sends a strong message that criminal groups involved in kidnapping and terrorism would find “neither refuge nor reward” under the Tinubu administration.

Uzodimma also praised the security personnel who spent weeks in the forest during the operation, describing their courage and sacrifice as instrumental to the successful rescue mission.

He expressed solidarity with the rescued pupils, teachers and their families as they begin the process of recovery and reunification.

Reaffirming the support of governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Uzodimma pledged the Progressive Governors’ Forum’s continued backing for President Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies in the fight against terrorism and other violent crimes.

He stressed that the forum remains committed to supporting coordinated efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country.