The Ogun State Government has recorded a significant victory in its ongoing battle against kidnapping, following the successful rescue of seven students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, who were abducted earlier this week in Remo North Local Government Area.
Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the breakthrough on Thursday while addressing journalists at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, alongside top security officials and some of the rescued students. He reiterated his administration’s firm stance that Ogun State will offer no refuge to criminal elements.
According to the Governor, the rescue operation was the result of a coordinated effort involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Ogun State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), as well as local vigilantes and hunters.
“I am pleased to inform the good people of Ogun State that in the early hours of today, Thursday, August 6, 2026, our combined security teams successfully rescued all seven victims alive,” Abiodun said.
He disclosed that one of the victims sustained a gunshot injury during the incident but was promptly evacuated for medical treatment and has since been stabilised.
The Governor emphasized that the operation remains ongoing, assuring residents that security agencies are actively pursuing all individuals connected to the abduction.
Abiodun further revealed that the intervention of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, who approved the deployment of a police helicopter for aerial surveillance, played a critical role in the success of the operation.
“Our resolve is unwavering. Ogun State will remain hostile to criminality and safe for every law-abiding citizen, resident, and investor,” he declared.
He noted that intensified joint security strategies, including the state’s “Operation Kò S’Áyé,” have strengthened intelligence sharing, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, and increased operational efficiency in tackling crime.
The Governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing national security, highlighting recent coordinated efforts by federal security agencies that led to the rescue of over 300 abducted victims across the country.
“At this juncture, I must acknowledge the purposeful leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His administration’s commitment to strengthening security architecture through improved intelligence coordination, modern equipment, and strategic reforms is yielding measurable results,” Abiodun stated.
He added that recent improvements in the welfare of security personnel, including salary enhancements for members of the Armed Forces, would further boost morale and operational effectiveness.
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to traditional rulers, community leaders, the families of the victims, and the management of Gateway ICT Polytechnic for their cooperation and patience throughout the rescue mission.
Reassuring residents, he pledged continued investment in security infrastructure and logistics to safeguard lives and property across Ogun State.
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Mr. Bode Ojajuni, confirmed that no ransom was paid for the release of the students, stressing that their freedom was secured purely through tactical security operations.
He disclosed that two suspected kidnappers have been arrested and are currently assisting investigators, while a manhunt is ongoing for other members of the criminal gang who remain at large.
