‘Nigeria Can Defeat Bandits Through Unity’ — Olugbon After Oriire Rescue
The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, has said Nigeria can overcome banditry and other security threats through unity and collaboration among all levels of government, security agencies and traditional institutions.
The monarch made the remark while reacting to the successful release of the pupils and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State after more than six weeks in captivity.
In a statement issued on Friday, Oba Alao commended President Bola Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, security agencies, local government chairmen and traditional rulers in Ogbomoso Zone for their collective efforts, describing the operation as a major victory against criminality.
The traditional ruler, who played a leading role in mobilising community support for efforts to secure the victims’ release, said the development had restored hope and brought relief to the affected families and residents across Oyo State.
According to him, the successful operation demonstrated the power of cooperation in tackling insecurity.
“By working together at the federal and state levels along with local government officials and traditional rulers, this successful security campaign shows that Nigeria is strong enough to defeat terrorists, bandits and other evil agents in society,” he said.
Oba Alao praised President Tinubu and Governor Makinde for providing what he described as decisive political leadership and demonstrating the resolve to confront insecurity.
He also applauded members of the security agencies for their professionalism, courage and sacrifices, paying tribute to officers who lost their lives during the operation.
“My sincere appreciation also goes to all the security forces who worked together and risked their lives to rescue the abductees.
Some of them paid the supreme price in the course of this national assignment. May God repose their souls and comfort their families,” he added.
The monarch urged residents, especially those in rural and border communities, to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
He also called on the government to strengthen community-based security measures to prevent a recurrence of the Oriire abduction and sustain the gains recorded in the operation.
Follow us for more news updates.
Author
