The National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) says the rescue of Oriire abductees in Oyo State proved that equipped and motivated security agents would be successful.
The Chairman of Board of Trustees of NAPTAN, Adeolu Ogunbanjo, said this in Lagos in reaction to Friday’s rescue of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area in Ogbomoso on May 15.
Ogunbanjo spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday.
He urged governments to strengthen security collaboration as a strategy to defeat all manner of criminals.
Ogunbanjo commended President Bola Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and security agencies for their efforts.
He described their collaboration as commendable and reassuring, expressing optimism that stronger security collaboration would end abductions.
Recall that the victims were abducted when gunmen attacked three schools in Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire, kidnapping 39 pupils, seven teachers and a school administrator.
The victims spent nearly 60 days in captivity but security operatives secured their freedom on Friday through coordinated operations.
According to Ogunbanjo, NAPTAN is grateful to God for the abductees’ safe return.
“We sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu, Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and security agencies for their concerted efforts, commitment and sacrifices leading to this rescue.
“If security agencies receive adequate encouragement, equipment and motivation, they will certainly record greater successes.
“This rescue clearly shows that meaningful support delivers positive results,” he said.
The chairman regretted the killing of one of the abducted teachers, describing it as heartbreaking.
He expressed delight at the arrest of some of the suspected abductors.
He recommended comprehensive medical care, counselling and sustained social reintegration for the rescued people.
