Monarchs praise Tinubu, others for role in freeing Oyo abduction victims

Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, and Oba Akeem Owoade, the Alaafin of Oyo, have commended President Bola Tinubu, security agencies, and local hunters for their role in rescuing kidnapped victims in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on Saturday.

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This praise was expressed through separate statements issued by their media aides in Ibadan, the state capital, highlighting the successful intervention.

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According to a statement by Adela Oloko, media aide to Ladoja, the rescue demonstrates the Federal Government's dedication to protecting lives and property, with over 40 victims being freed after their ordeal.

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These victims were initially kidnapped from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, L.A. Primary School, and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esienle, on Friday, May 15, 2026, during a coordinated bandit attack at approximately 9:30 a.m.

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After spending 56 days in captivity, they were finally released on Friday, July 10, 2026, marking a significant development in the case.

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The Olubadan described the release as a landmark achievement for the current administration, emphasizing that the government must now focus on securing communities near the National Park and rehabilitating the victims.

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Ladoja also expressed gratitude to Governor Engr Seyi Makinde for his support during the crisis, as well as to the security operatives led by the Chief of Defence Staff, Inspector General of Police, and other agency leaders.

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In a separate statement, the Alaafin, through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, praised President Tinubu and Governor Makinde for their commitment to securing the release of the abducted pupils.

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Oba Akeem Owoade congratulated the parents of the abducted pupils on their safe return and commended the security agencies for their dedication and patriotism in working towards the release.

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The Alaafin noted that national security relies on trust and that citizens must believe in the functionality and responsiveness of institutions, even in difficult times, to maintain public confidence.

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He emphasized that credibility is built through accuracy, consistency, and transparency, rather than mere communication, and that the goal is to prevent hopelessness from becoming a national doctrine.

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The Alaafin also referenced the historic Oyo empire, which lasted over 600 uninterrupted years, attributing its longevity to a cohesive native intelligence mechanism.