Uzodimma Hails Tinubu After Rescue of Oyo Pupils, Says Operation Shows Resolve Against Terrorism

Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum (PGF), Senator Hope Uzodimma, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the rescue of the pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as evidence of the Federal Government's commitment to protecting the lives of Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Friday, Uzodimma said the release of the victims after 56 days in captivity was a source of relief for their families, the people of Oyo State and the nation.

He said the successful operation, which secured the victims' freedom without the payment of ransom, demonstrated the government's resolve to confront insecurity and protect vulnerable citizens.

"I commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the safe release of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire, Oyo State," the governor said.

"After fifty-six days in captivity, these young Nigerians and their teachers are returning to their families unharmed, without ransom and without concession. I rejoice with their parents, with the Government and people of Oyo State, and with a nation that refused to abandon its children."

Uzodimma attributed the rescue to what he described as a coordinated security operation carried out on the directive of the President by the Armed Forces and other security and intelligence agencies.

According to him, the operation led to the dismantling of the kidnappers' network, the arrest of eight suspected abductors and the safe release of all those held captive.

He said the outcome reflected President Tinubu's determination to protect Nigerians and confront criminal groups threatening national security.

"This outcome did not happen by chance. It followed a direct presidential mandate, executed with precision by a joint task force drawn from our Armed Forces and the intelligence and security agencies," he said.

"It shows that President Tinubu is a committed leader, prepared to go to every length to secure the life of every Nigerian. Under his watch, those who traffic in the terror of children will find neither refuge nor reward."

The governor also commended the military and other security personnel involved in the operation for their commitment and sacrifice.

He expressed solidarity with the rescued victims and their families as they begin the process of recovery from their ordeal.

As Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum, Uzodimma reaffirmed the support of governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the President and the country's security agencies.

He said the forum would continue to support efforts aimed at combating terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime across Nigeria.