馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
YPP urges Tinubu to replicate Oyo rescue strategy nationwide for abducted students and teachers
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
The Young Progressives Party has called on President Bola Tinubu and Nigerian security agencies to adopt the strategy used to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, for similar situations across the country. The party emphasized that decisive security action, rather than ransom negotiations, is the most effective response to terrorism and kidnapping. This call followed the successful rescue of 57 victims from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area after 56 days in captivity. The YPP commended the security agencies for their coordinated operation, which led to the victims' freedom and the neutralization of some kidnappers. The party views this operation as a significant victory against insecurity, arguing that successful rescue missions through force discourage criminal groups from relying on kidnapping. The YPP urged the same commitment for victims abducted in other parts of the country, particularly students kidnapped in Borno State. Reiterating its stance against negotiating with armed groups, the party maintained that terrorists and kidnappers should be confronted through sustained security operations and prosecuted. The YPP also expressed concern over increasing attacks on schools, warning that this trend threatens education in Nigeria. To address this, the party called for strengthening the Safe Schools Initiative through increased security personnel, improved intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, community policing, and rapid-respons
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Must ReadOgun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Governor Abiodun stated that the operation demonstrates the President's commitment to eliminating criminal elements and sends a clear message that Nigeria is becoming hostile to kidnappers, bandits, and other violent criminals. He praised the Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and local intelligence operatives for their gallantry and professionalism. Governor Abiodun also acknowledged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies, highlighting that this seamless cooperation contributed significantly to the successful outcome. He urged Nigerians to trust security institutions and provide timely intelligence. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the rescue, noting that no concessions were made to the terrorists. The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools, resulting in the death of two teachers. The kidnappers had reportedly made demands including the release of detained commanders, ransom, vehicles, and the implementation of Sharia-related law, but the Oyo State Government maintained a no-ransom policy. The incident led to public anguish and a teachers' strike.
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