Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd./GTE. (SOJA) has applauded the rescue of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and calling for sustained security reforms to end violent crimes across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the organisation’s Founder and Executive Director, Hameed Jimoh, commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies for their professionalism, courage and coordinated efforts that secured the victims’ release after 56 days in captivity.
SOJA noted reports that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the rescue operation, while several others were neutralised. It also referenced the Presidency’s disclosure that no concessions were made to the abductors, including the refusal to release an alleged kingpin currently facing terrorism-related prosecution.
While awaiting a comprehensive official briefing from security agencies, the organisation congratulated the rescued pupils and teachers, their families, school authorities, the Oyo State Government and Nigerians who had prayed and hoped for their safe return.
The group, however, urged the nation not to lose sight of victims of kidnapping, terrorism and banditry who lost their lives in captivity or other violent attacks.
It extended condolences to bereaved families and called for sustained support for communities and individuals still suffering the effects of insecurity.
According to SOJA, every life lost to criminal violence is one too many, stressing that the true measure of success against insecurity lies not only in rescuing victims but also in preventing abductions and dismantling criminal networks.
The organisation cited Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government, saying the successful operation reaffirmed the government’s constitutional obligation to protect lives and property.
It also reminded the authorities of Nigeria’s commitments under international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantee the rights to life, liberty, dignity, personal security and education.
SOJA urged the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, education authorities and humanitarian organisations to provide comprehensive post-rescue assistance for the victims, including medical treatment, psychosocial support, family reunification, academic reintegration and adequate security where necessary.
The advocacy group further called for national recognition of security personnel involved in the operation and insisted that all suspects arrested should be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law while upholding due process.
It also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates by targeting their financiers, collaborators, informants and other criminal networks that sustain violent crimes.
The organisation advocated greater investment in intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, border security, community policing, inter-agency cooperation and intelligence-driven operations to prevent future attacks.
It also recommended stronger security measures around schools through regular risk assessments, emergency response planning, improved intelligence sharing and closer collaboration among school authorities, host communities, parents and security agencies.
“Schools must remain safe spaces for learning and never become targets of criminal violence,” the group said.
SOJA further urged governments at all levels to address the socio-economic drivers of crime by expanding access to quality education, creating employment opportunities, strengthening vocational training, empowering young people and improving social welfare programmes.
The organisation also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence while avoiding the spread of rumours capable of undermining ongoing operations.
It said the successful rescue demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated, intelligence-led security operations and urged the Federal Government to build on the achievement in its efforts to eliminate kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crime nationwide.
SOJA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, justice, accountability, transparency, good governance and the rule of law, while praying for the full recovery of the rescued victims and enduring peace and security across the country.
