The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has praised President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security leadership for the successful rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director-General of the institute, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, said the successful operation marked a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat banditry, terrorism and other security threats.
The institute commended the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Inspector-General of Police, heads of other security agencies, the Oyo State Government and all security personnel who participated in the intelligence-led rescue mission.
According to IPCR, the operation reflects the positive impact of President Tinubu’s sustained investment in Nigeria’s security architecture through enhanced inter-agency collaboration, improved intelligence gathering and continued support for the country’s security institutions.
The institute noted that the safe return of the victims after weeks in captivity had brought immense relief to their families, host communities and Nigerians who had anxiously awaited their freedom.
It further applauded the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, intelligence agencies and other security operatives for demonstrating exceptional courage, professionalism and operational coordination in securing the victims’ release.
IPCR said the success of the operation reinforced the importance of close collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, intelligence institutions and local communities in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
While celebrating the rescue, the institute urged authorities not to relent in efforts to prevent similar attacks by strengthening security around schools and other vulnerable public institutions.
“The successful rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers is a welcome development that deserves national commendation. It reflects the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the nation’s security institutions in fulfilling their constitutional responsibility, as well as the commitment, professionalism and resilience of our gallant security personnel whose sacrifices continue to safeguard lives and preserve national security,” the statement said.
IPCR also praised the President for providing the leadership, policy direction and operational support that have enabled security agencies to discharge their constitutional responsibilities more effectively.
The institute warned that attacks on schools have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate victims, creating fear among parents, disrupting education and undermining national development.
It therefore called on governments at all levels to reinforce security around educational institutions through improved surveillance, stronger early warning systems, enhanced intelligence gathering and deeper partnerships with host communities.
The institute further advocated increased investment in intelligence-driven operations and rapid response capabilities to deter future attacks.
Beyond security measures, IPCR stressed the need for sustained peacebuilding initiatives to address the root causes of violent crime, including poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and weak community engagement.
It also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, civil society organisations and community leaders to complement the efforts of security agencies through timely information sharing, dialogue and community-based initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and preventing criminal activities.
