Kidnapping: Gov Adeleke calls for increased momentum against criminals

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has called on security agencies, particularly the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, to sustain the ongoing momentum against criminal elements following the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

The governor made the appeal while congratulating President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on the successful operation that secured the freedom of the victims, describing their unconditional release as encouraging news for the country.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke said the successful rescue demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated security operations in tackling kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes across Nigeria.

He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for what he described as their professionalism, resilience and collaboration throughout the operation, which resulted in the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers after weeks of sustained efforts.

“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,” Adeleke said.

The governor also praised 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 for their coordinated response.

“I also commend 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 this success possible,” he stated.

According to the governor, “the outcome of the operation highlights the importance of sustained synergy among Nigeria’s security institutions in addressing insecurity and protecting citizens from criminal activities.”

Adeleke applauded the security forces for conducting the rescue operation with professionalism and restraint, noting that the victims were safely released while the criminal network responsible for the abduction was dismantled.

The governor also paid tribute to security personnel who made sacrifices during the operation, praying for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and wishing those injured a speedy recovery.

He also urged security agencies to maintain the momentum in the fight against crime across the country.