Orire Rescue: AFOZA Commends Tinubu, Makinde, and Security Agencies on Safe Release of Abducted Pupils

 By Ayekooto Media

July 11, 2026

       

IBADAN— Following the successful rescue of the abducted pupils, teachers, and principal from Orire Local Government Area after 56 days in captivity, the Advocacy for Oke Ogun Zone Advancement (AFOZA) has issued an official statement commending the coordinated efforts of the Federal and State governments.

In a press release made available to Ayekooto Media on Saturday, the socio-economic advocacy group lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the joint security operatives for their decisive action. 

The group, while celebrating the safe return of the victims, also charged the government to heavily invest in modern security infrastructure across the Oke Ogun zone to prevent a recurrence.

The full text of the press statement reads:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: PRESS STATEMENT

Advocacy for Oke Ogun Zone Advancement Congratulates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Seyi Makinde, Security Operatives, and Families on the Safe Release of Abducted School Children, Teachers, and Principal in Orire Local Government Area

11 July 2026

The Advocacy for Oke Ogun Zone Advancement (AFOZA) expresses profound joy and heartfelt congratulations to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, security agencies, patriotic private security operatives, and all stakeholders whose determined efforts led to the successful rescue of the school children, their teachers, and the Principal who were abducted in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

      

The safe release of the victims on Friday, 10 July 2026, after 56 days in captivity, marks a moment of immense relief and thanksgiving for their families, colleagues, friends, the school community, and the entire people of Oke Ogun and Oyo State. We thank Almighty God for His divine protection over the victims and for granting wisdom, courage, and success to those involved in the rescue operation.

A Proof of Collaborative Intelligence: This successful rescue demonstrates that coordinated intelligence, effective collaboration among security agencies, and the support of local communities can produce positive outcomes in the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes. It is also a testament to the dedication, patriotism, and professionalism of the gallant security personnel and all those who worked tirelessly to secure the victims’ freedom.

Advocacy for Oke Ogun Zone Advancement commends the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Oyo State Government under Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde for their continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property. We equally appreciate the invaluable contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders, volunteers, and all Nigerians who offered support, information, and prayers throughout this challenging period.

The Call for Proactive Grassroots Security: While celebrating this welcome development, we respectfully urge the Federal and Oyo State Governments to strengthen security architecture across Oke Ogun by deploying more security personnel, improving surveillance and intelligence capabilities, securing schools and rural communities, and investing in modern security infrastructure. Preventive measures and sustained collaboration with local communities remain essential to ensuring that such unfortunate incidents do not recur.

As an organization dedicated to the sustainable development, security, and socio-economic advancement of Oke Ogun, AFOZA reaffirms its commitment to working with governments, traditional institutions, security agencies, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders to promote peace, safety, and inclusive development throughout the zone.

     

We once again congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, the rescued victims and their families, the gallant security personnel, and every individual whose dedication and sacrifice made this successful rescue possible. We pray for the speedy emotional and psychological recovery of the victims and for enduring peace and security across Oke Ogun, Oyo State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Signed:

Ambassador David A. Adejuwon President  

Advocacy for Oke Ogun Zone Advancement (AFOZA