The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has commended security agencies and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for their roles in securing the release of pupils and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, the party expressed relief over the safe return of the victims after weeks of uncertainty, describing the development as a welcome relief for their families, the academic community and residents of Oyo State.
The pupils and teachers were released after spending more than 50 days in captivity following their abduction on May 15, 2026.
The release was confirmed by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the victims were rescued in a coordinated security operation.
In a post on his verified X account, Onanuga disclosed that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation, while several others were neutralised.
Reacting to the development, APM praised the military, the Nigeria Police Force and local intelligence units for their efforts in securing the victims’ freedom.
“The Allied Peoples Movement expresses joy and immense relief over the rescue and release of the schoolchildren and teachers who were abducted on May 15, 2026, in the Oriire area of Oyo State,” the statement said.
The party described the rescue as a significant relief for the victims’ families, the education sector, the Oyo State Government and Nigerians who followed the incident.
“The APM commends the tactical precision, resilience and synergy demonstrated by our security agencies—including the military, police and local intelligence units—for their efforts towards ensuring that these innocent citizens were brought back alive,” it added.
The party also praised Governor Makinde for what it described as his leadership, responsiveness and efforts towards securing the release of the victims and improving security across the state.
It said the governor’s cooperation with security agencies contributed to the success of the rescue operation.
While celebrating the victims’ return, the APM urged governments at all levels to strengthen security measures around schools and vulnerable communities.
“No Nigerian child or educator should have to pursue knowledge under the shadow of fear. We urge governments at all levels to build on this success by deploying more robust, proactive security measures around schools, particularly in vulnerable communities,” the party said.
The party expressed solidarity with the rescued pupils, teachers and their families as they begin the process of recovery and rehabilitation.
