The former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, has lauded President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the nation’s security agencies following the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from the Oriire Local Government Area.
In a statement released Saturday morning through his Personal Assistant, Bamitale Ibrahim, Arapaja highly commended the security forces for neutralizing several gang members and arresting eight suspected kidnappers during the high-stakes operation.
Arapaja described the successful rescue as a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing fight against criminality, noting that it reflects a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.
“I equally salute the gallant officers and men of all the security agencies whose professionalism, courage, and sacrifice made the operation successful,” Arapaja stated. “The arrest of eight kidnappers and the neutralization of others sends a strong message that criminals have no hiding place and that crime will never triumph over the collective resolve of our nation.”
While celebrating the safe return of the victims, the former deputy governor urged law enforcement agencies to maintain their momentum. He called for a relentless pursuit of any remaining syndicate members and demanded a diligent prosecution of the suspects currently in custody to serve as a strong deterrent to others.
Expressing deep gratitude for the safe recovery of the students and teachers, Arapaja offered prayers for their quick healing from the traumatic ordeal.
He concluded by reminding the public that safety is a shared duty, urging residents of Oyo State and the wider Nigerian public to consistently back security agencies with timely and credible information.
