The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and Nigeria’s security agencies for the successful rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to a statement on Saturday signed by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, said the Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) described the safe return of the victims after about 56 days in captivity as a significant relief to their families and a demonstration of the commitment of the Federal Government and security agencies towards protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians.
The Ooni praised the professionalism, bravery and dedication displayed by the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies involved in the rescue operation.
Ooni Ogunwusi also commended President Tinubu for providing the needed leadership and support that facilitated the successful operation, while appreciating the Oyo State Government, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders for their roles in ensuring the safe return of the victims.
He congratulated the parents, guardians and loved ones of the rescued pupils and teachers, noting that their reunion marks the end of a painful period of anxiety, prayers and uncertainty.
The Ooni said, “The successful rescue of the Oriire schoolchildren and teachers is a welcome development and a testament to what can be achieved when government institutions, security agencies and communities work together towards a common goal.
“I commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Oyo State Government and our gallant security personnel for their commitment and determination in ensuring that these innocent children and their teachers return safely to their families.
“The courage and professionalism demonstrated by our security agencies during this operation deserve commendation. Their efforts have restored hope and reaffirmed the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the security challenges facing our nation.”
The African foremost monarch, however, urged security agencies and relevant authorities not to relent in their efforts towards preventing future attacks, especially on schools and vulnerable communities across the country.
Ooni Ogunwusi stressed the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved community engagement and continuous collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions to build a safer Nigeria.
He noted that traditional rulers remain strategic partners in promoting peace and security, given their closeness to the people and their understanding of local environments.
While celebrating the successful rescue, the Ooni prayed for the quick recovery of the victims from the traumatic experience and expressed his condolences to families who lost loved ones during the unfortunate incident.
He called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that would aid efforts towards combating criminal activities and ensuring lasting peace across the country.
