Oyo NUJ, NAWOJ Hail Safe Return Of Oriire Abducted Pupils, Teachers

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has expressed delight over the safe return of the pupils and teachers abducted from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing their release as a great relief to their families, the school community, and the entire state.

In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of the Council, Mr. Akeem Abas, and the Secretary, Temidayo Adu, the Union commended the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government, and the various security agencies for their relentless efforts, professionalism, and coordinated operations which eventually led to the freedom of the victims.

The Council noted that the successful rescue underscores the importance of sustained collaboration among all security stakeholders in tackling insecurity, while urging governments at all levels not to relent in their commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians, particularly schoolchildren.

Oyo NUJ also advocated immediate medical examination, psychosocial support, and comprehensive rehabilitation for the rescued pupils and teachers to help them recover from the physical and emotional trauma they might have suffered before their reintegration into their families, schools, and society.

While celebrating the development, the Union called for the strengthening of security architecture in and around schools across all Local Government Areas of Oyo State.

It stressed the need for regular security patrols, improved intelligence gathering, and closer collaboration between communities and security agencies to forestall a recurrence of such unfortunate incidents.

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible journalism and supporting efforts aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens.

The union urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information, and continue to support initiatives that will guarantee lasting peace and security across Oyo State.

Similarly, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Oyo State Chapter has commended the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government for their coordinated, and successful efforts that led to the safe release of the students and teachers abducted from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo state.

In a statement by the Chairperson Comrade Omolola Alamu , Oyo Nawoj acknowledged the proactive security response by federal and state security agencies whose intelligence and rescue operations ensured the students returned home alive and unharmed.

Oyo Nawoj also commended the political will and leadership demonstrated by both the Federal and State Governments in prioritizing the safety of children and refusing to bow to criminal elements.

The Association also appreciated the collaboration with community stakeholders, traditional rulers, and civil society which proved vital in securing the release.

Oyo Nawoj however appealed to government to Strengthen security architecture in schools across Oyo State, especially in rural and border LGAs like Oriire.